Bank finance in developing small and medium enterprise: an appraisal of relevent determinants in Rwanda
- Authors: Gatabazi , Emmanuel Thomas
- Date: 2012-04
- Subjects: Economic assistance , Developing countries -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25096 , vital:63974
- Description: This study examines the perceived non-availability of adequate bank financing to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with reference to Rwanda. Evidence from both developed and developing countries show that SMEs are more constrained in their operations and growth than large enterprises and access to finance features importantly among the constraints, with their proprietors typically perceiving finance as their most pressing input constraints. The problem is more severe in less developed countries like Rwanda. SMEs do not get adequate finance from financial systems despite their valuable contribution in the economic development of all nations across the globe. They are well recognized from their contribution to the socio-economic objectives of growth in employment generation, product output, export, and in their function as seed beds of entrepreneurship. This study aims to investigate the causes of the problem and what could be done to mitigate the problem. The primary objective of the study is to determine how to improve the availability of bank financing to SMEs in Rwanda. The argument is that there are SMEs internal factors that cause unavailability of bank financing. Understanding the causes of this problem is important to determining how to improve availability of credit to SMEs. For this purpose, the questionnaire was administered to 122 respondents from four commercial banks and 26 respondents from one development bank. All together 148 questionnaires were administered and 120 questionnaires returned. The response rate was 81 percent. Six major SMEs internal factors which included; business information, collateral, managerial competency, internal funds, networking and ethical practices were investigated to find out their impact on the availability of bank financing to SMEs. Quantitative data were analysed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) with statistical tools including descriptive statistics, frequency distributions and chi-square test. The Cronbach’s alpha was used as a measure of reliability. While the data from the open-end question analysis involved classifying data, extracting themes, identifying patterns, tallying and quantifying responses and making generalization out of these patterns. This implies that the research methodology focused on the methods, tools and techniques used to assist in achieving the objectives of the study and answering the research questions that the research sought to address. To this end, the study sought the perceptions of bank staff on reasons why bank credit is not available to SMEs. The study focused on four research questions as outlined in chapter one and other relevant sections of the study. The major finding of this study is that there is a significant positive relationship between six SMEs internal factors (lack of business information, lack of collateral, lack of managerial competency, lack of internal funds, lack of networking and unethical practices) and non-availability of banks finance in Rwanda. On the basis of these findings, the study recommended that SMEs owners and staff should be trained in key strategic areas such as business management and financial management to effectively and efficiently manage their businesses and curb information asymmetry. The study also recommends that the government should introduce more practical guarantee facilities to enable banks access the funds as soon as the SME defaults. This will encourage bank to extend more credit to SMEs. Furthermore, the study suggests that the government should categorise SMEs as a priority sector and come up with a policy requiring banks to compulsorily ensure that a certain earmarked percentage of their overall lending is made to SMEs as a priority sector. Lastly, the study recommends that Rwanda Private Sector Federation should conduct trainings on ethical management to SMEs. Unethical behaviours such as deliberately not paying back loans should be heavily punished to limit occurrences of these behaviours among SMEs which may results in huge stock of non-performing loans. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2012
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gatabazi , Emmanuel Thomas
- Date: 2012-04
- Subjects: Economic assistance , Developing countries -- Economic conditions
- Language: English
- Type: text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25096 , vital:63974
- Description: This study examines the perceived non-availability of adequate bank financing to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with reference to Rwanda. Evidence from both developed and developing countries show that SMEs are more constrained in their operations and growth than large enterprises and access to finance features importantly among the constraints, with their proprietors typically perceiving finance as their most pressing input constraints. The problem is more severe in less developed countries like Rwanda. SMEs do not get adequate finance from financial systems despite their valuable contribution in the economic development of all nations across the globe. They are well recognized from their contribution to the socio-economic objectives of growth in employment generation, product output, export, and in their function as seed beds of entrepreneurship. This study aims to investigate the causes of the problem and what could be done to mitigate the problem. The primary objective of the study is to determine how to improve the availability of bank financing to SMEs in Rwanda. The argument is that there are SMEs internal factors that cause unavailability of bank financing. Understanding the causes of this problem is important to determining how to improve availability of credit to SMEs. For this purpose, the questionnaire was administered to 122 respondents from four commercial banks and 26 respondents from one development bank. All together 148 questionnaires were administered and 120 questionnaires returned. The response rate was 81 percent. Six major SMEs internal factors which included; business information, collateral, managerial competency, internal funds, networking and ethical practices were investigated to find out their impact on the availability of bank financing to SMEs. Quantitative data were analysed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) with statistical tools including descriptive statistics, frequency distributions and chi-square test. The Cronbach’s alpha was used as a measure of reliability. While the data from the open-end question analysis involved classifying data, extracting themes, identifying patterns, tallying and quantifying responses and making generalization out of these patterns. This implies that the research methodology focused on the methods, tools and techniques used to assist in achieving the objectives of the study and answering the research questions that the research sought to address. To this end, the study sought the perceptions of bank staff on reasons why bank credit is not available to SMEs. The study focused on four research questions as outlined in chapter one and other relevant sections of the study. The major finding of this study is that there is a significant positive relationship between six SMEs internal factors (lack of business information, lack of collateral, lack of managerial competency, lack of internal funds, lack of networking and unethical practices) and non-availability of banks finance in Rwanda. On the basis of these findings, the study recommended that SMEs owners and staff should be trained in key strategic areas such as business management and financial management to effectively and efficiently manage their businesses and curb information asymmetry. The study also recommends that the government should introduce more practical guarantee facilities to enable banks access the funds as soon as the SME defaults. This will encourage bank to extend more credit to SMEs. Furthermore, the study suggests that the government should categorise SMEs as a priority sector and come up with a policy requiring banks to compulsorily ensure that a certain earmarked percentage of their overall lending is made to SMEs as a priority sector. Lastly, the study recommends that Rwanda Private Sector Federation should conduct trainings on ethical management to SMEs. Unethical behaviours such as deliberately not paying back loans should be heavily punished to limit occurrences of these behaviours among SMEs which may results in huge stock of non-performing loans. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2012
- Full Text:
Barriers and reasons for exercise of rural and urban overweight and obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Mrwebi, Thembani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Obesity--Prevention , Public health--Exercise
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22522 , vital:52388
- Description: It is documented that obesity is highly prevalent across rural and urban groups in industrialised and underdeveloped countries. This problem is an alarming issue as community members remain unsure about avoiding risking their health. Various health surveys reveal that obesity has increased among communities in the Buffalo City Metro Municipality in the Eastern Cape, and it has consequently made communities vulnerable to non-communicable diseases. The researcher explored factors and barriers of exercise for rural and urban obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. This study was descriptive and explorative, utilising a questionnaire for gathering information. A purposive sample of 80 members from the two selected communities completed the questionnaire. A factor analysis was performed to identify factors that motivate physical activity and barriers to physical activity. It was discovered that all evaluated members were fully aware of the harmful repercussions of being overweight or obese. Nevertheless, only a tiny percentage of those who took part in the study decided to live a healthier lifestyle because of their obesity. Constructive motivating factors included increasing their self-image, enhancing their wellbeing, and getting highly involved in active and regular exercise. Negative motivators included finding it challenging to fit into old clothes and the worry of developing obesity-related diseases. Respondents noted the following impediments in regular exercises and physical activities; African cultural values, limited operational hours of physical activity facilities, insufficient time, and a lack of enthusiasm. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mrwebi, Thembani
- Date: 2021-04
- Subjects: Obesity--Prevention , Public health--Exercise
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22522 , vital:52388
- Description: It is documented that obesity is highly prevalent across rural and urban groups in industrialised and underdeveloped countries. This problem is an alarming issue as community members remain unsure about avoiding risking their health. Various health surveys reveal that obesity has increased among communities in the Buffalo City Metro Municipality in the Eastern Cape, and it has consequently made communities vulnerable to non-communicable diseases. The researcher explored factors and barriers of exercise for rural and urban obese populations in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, Eastern Cape. This study was descriptive and explorative, utilising a questionnaire for gathering information. A purposive sample of 80 members from the two selected communities completed the questionnaire. A factor analysis was performed to identify factors that motivate physical activity and barriers to physical activity. It was discovered that all evaluated members were fully aware of the harmful repercussions of being overweight or obese. Nevertheless, only a tiny percentage of those who took part in the study decided to live a healthier lifestyle because of their obesity. Constructive motivating factors included increasing their self-image, enhancing their wellbeing, and getting highly involved in active and regular exercise. Negative motivators included finding it challenging to fit into old clothes and the worry of developing obesity-related diseases. Respondents noted the following impediments in regular exercises and physical activities; African cultural values, limited operational hours of physical activity facilities, insufficient time, and a lack of enthusiasm. , Thesis (MPhil) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Barriers to exclusive breastfeeding for mothers in the Tswelopele Municipality
- Authors: Quebu, Simthandile Rebecca
- Date: 2020-03
- Subjects: Breastfeeding , Infants -- Nutrition
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27209 , vital:66466
- Description: The purpose of the study was to assess the barriers to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) of mothers in the Tswelopele Municipality. The South Africa Demographic and Health survey reported the country’s EBF rates among children below six months of age to be at 32 percent for the year 2016. The World Health Organisation endorses the promotion and protection of the practice of EBF throughout the first six months of life, and the addition of complementary foods at six months coupled with breastfeeding up to two years of age. This feeding practise is recommended as the most efficient feeding practice to save infants from various illnesses and mortality across the globe, irrespective of their mother’s HIV status and economic class. A qualitative, contextual, explorative and descriptive research design was employed for this study to achieve the research objectives. The researcher incorporated both purposive and convenience sampling in this study. Purposive sampling was used to select the clinics, and convenience sampling was used to select the participants. Mothers who had infants 6-12 months old who were accessing infant and child health services in the three public health care facilities in the Tswelopele Municipality were a target population. Individual semi-structured interviews were administered, and an audio recorder was utilized to record the interviews with the participants' consent. The researcher throughout this study verbatim transcribed the interview audio tapes, and ethical principles and trustworthiness standards were adhered to. The University of Fort Hare (Ref # 2021=06=12 QuebuS) granted ethical clearance and all participants gave formal consent to voluntarily participate in this research. Tesch's approach for data analysis to open coding in qualitative research was used to analyse the data. Sixteen (16) participants in total took part in this study and the research study was conducted during the whole month of October 2021.During the data analysis, four main themes and thirteen sub-themes emerged, all of which were thoroughly examined. The findings suggest that maternal factors such as extreme pain in the breast, maternal sickness, belief that milk supply is insufficient, lack of EBF knowledge and cultural influences are the key contributors to the success or failure of EBF practice. When mothers have difficulties with breastfeeding, their difficulties can become barriers to EBF. Furthermore, a noteworthy finding is that some participants in this study were eager to breastfeed their babies and maintain EBF for six months; however, their infants had problems that prohibited them from doing so. These issues primarily included infants who refused to breastfeed and breast milk not being tolerated by some infants, as seen by baby vomiting after feeds. It was recommended that breastfeeding education and counselling should be available to mothers and their families from prenatal to postnatal so that they have enough time to make informed infant feeding decisions. Furthermore, an open dialogue with mothers and their families on a realistic understanding of what to expect when they first breastfeed, as well as the exploration of myths, inaccurate information, and concerns can be addressed during the counselling sessions. In conclusion, health professionals should also take into account the culture of mothers, respect cultural customs linked with breastfeeding, and respectfully educate them and their families about traditions that may affect breast-feeding. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Quebu, Simthandile Rebecca
- Date: 2020-03
- Subjects: Breastfeeding , Infants -- Nutrition
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27209 , vital:66466
- Description: The purpose of the study was to assess the barriers to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) of mothers in the Tswelopele Municipality. The South Africa Demographic and Health survey reported the country’s EBF rates among children below six months of age to be at 32 percent for the year 2016. The World Health Organisation endorses the promotion and protection of the practice of EBF throughout the first six months of life, and the addition of complementary foods at six months coupled with breastfeeding up to two years of age. This feeding practise is recommended as the most efficient feeding practice to save infants from various illnesses and mortality across the globe, irrespective of their mother’s HIV status and economic class. A qualitative, contextual, explorative and descriptive research design was employed for this study to achieve the research objectives. The researcher incorporated both purposive and convenience sampling in this study. Purposive sampling was used to select the clinics, and convenience sampling was used to select the participants. Mothers who had infants 6-12 months old who were accessing infant and child health services in the three public health care facilities in the Tswelopele Municipality were a target population. Individual semi-structured interviews were administered, and an audio recorder was utilized to record the interviews with the participants' consent. The researcher throughout this study verbatim transcribed the interview audio tapes, and ethical principles and trustworthiness standards were adhered to. The University of Fort Hare (Ref # 2021=06=12 QuebuS) granted ethical clearance and all participants gave formal consent to voluntarily participate in this research. Tesch's approach for data analysis to open coding in qualitative research was used to analyse the data. Sixteen (16) participants in total took part in this study and the research study was conducted during the whole month of October 2021.During the data analysis, four main themes and thirteen sub-themes emerged, all of which were thoroughly examined. The findings suggest that maternal factors such as extreme pain in the breast, maternal sickness, belief that milk supply is insufficient, lack of EBF knowledge and cultural influences are the key contributors to the success or failure of EBF practice. When mothers have difficulties with breastfeeding, their difficulties can become barriers to EBF. Furthermore, a noteworthy finding is that some participants in this study were eager to breastfeed their babies and maintain EBF for six months; however, their infants had problems that prohibited them from doing so. These issues primarily included infants who refused to breastfeed and breast milk not being tolerated by some infants, as seen by baby vomiting after feeds. It was recommended that breastfeeding education and counselling should be available to mothers and their families from prenatal to postnatal so that they have enough time to make informed infant feeding decisions. Furthermore, an open dialogue with mothers and their families on a realistic understanding of what to expect when they first breastfeed, as well as the exploration of myths, inaccurate information, and concerns can be addressed during the counselling sessions. In conclusion, health professionals should also take into account the culture of mothers, respect cultural customs linked with breastfeeding, and respectfully educate them and their families about traditions that may affect breast-feeding. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
Barriers to exclusive breastfeeding for mothers in the Tswelopele Municipality
- Authors: Quebu, Simthandile Rebecca
- Date: 2020-03
- Subjects: Breastfeeding
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23589 , vital:58192
- Description: The purpose of the study was to assess the barriers to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) of mothers in the Tswelopele Municipality. The South Africa Demographic and Health survey reported the country’s EBF rates among children below six months of age to be at 32percent for the year 2016. The World Health Organisation endorses the promotion and protection of the practice of EBF throughout the first six months of life, and the addition of complementary foods at six months coupled with breastfeeding up to two years of age. This feeding practise is recommended as the most efficient feeding practice to save infants from various illnesses and mortality across the globe, irrespective of their mother’s HIV status and economic class. A qualitative, contextual, explorative and descriptive research design was employed for this study to achieve the research objectives. The researcher incorporated both purposive and convenience sampling in this study. Purposive sampling was used to select the clinics, and convenience sampling was used to select the participants. Mothers who had infants 6-12 months old who were accessing infant and child health services in the three public health care facilities in the Tswelopele Municipality were a target population. Individual semi-structured interviews were administered, and an audio recorder was utilized to record the interviews with the participants' consent. The researcher throughout this study verbatim transcribed the interview audio tapes, and ethical principles and trustworthiness standards were adhered to. The University of Fort Hare (Ref # 2021=06=12 QuebuS) granted ethical clearance and all participants gave formal consent to voluntarily participate in this research. Tesch's approach for data analysis to open coding in qualitative research was used to analyse the data. Sixteen (16) participants in total took part in this study and the research study was conducted during the whole month of October 2021.During the data analysis, four main themes and thirteen sub-themes emerged, all of which were thoroughly examined. The findings suggest that maternal factors such as extreme pain in the breast, maternal sickness, belief that milk supply is insufficient, lack of EBF knowledge and cultural influences are the key contributors to the success or failure of EBF practice. When mothers have difficulties with breastfeeding, their difficulties can become barriers to EBF. Furthermore, a noteworthy finding is that some participants in this study were eager to breastfeed their babies and maintain EBF for six months; however, their infants had problems that prohibited them from doing so. These issues primarily included infants who refused to breastfeed and breast milk not being tolerated by some infants, as seen by baby vomiting after feeds. It was recommended that breastfeeding education and counselling should be available to mothers and their families from prenatal to postnatal so that they have enough time to make informed infant feeding decisions. Furthermore, an open dialogue with mothers and their families on a realistic understanding of what to expect when they first breastfeed, as well as the exploration of myths, inaccurate information, and concerns can be addressed during the counselling sessions. In conclusion, health professionals should also take into account the culture of mothers, respect cultural customs linked with breastfeeding, and respectfully educate them and their families about traditions that may affect breast-feeding. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
- Authors: Quebu, Simthandile Rebecca
- Date: 2020-03
- Subjects: Breastfeeding
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23589 , vital:58192
- Description: The purpose of the study was to assess the barriers to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) of mothers in the Tswelopele Municipality. The South Africa Demographic and Health survey reported the country’s EBF rates among children below six months of age to be at 32percent for the year 2016. The World Health Organisation endorses the promotion and protection of the practice of EBF throughout the first six months of life, and the addition of complementary foods at six months coupled with breastfeeding up to two years of age. This feeding practise is recommended as the most efficient feeding practice to save infants from various illnesses and mortality across the globe, irrespective of their mother’s HIV status and economic class. A qualitative, contextual, explorative and descriptive research design was employed for this study to achieve the research objectives. The researcher incorporated both purposive and convenience sampling in this study. Purposive sampling was used to select the clinics, and convenience sampling was used to select the participants. Mothers who had infants 6-12 months old who were accessing infant and child health services in the three public health care facilities in the Tswelopele Municipality were a target population. Individual semi-structured interviews were administered, and an audio recorder was utilized to record the interviews with the participants' consent. The researcher throughout this study verbatim transcribed the interview audio tapes, and ethical principles and trustworthiness standards were adhered to. The University of Fort Hare (Ref # 2021=06=12 QuebuS) granted ethical clearance and all participants gave formal consent to voluntarily participate in this research. Tesch's approach for data analysis to open coding in qualitative research was used to analyse the data. Sixteen (16) participants in total took part in this study and the research study was conducted during the whole month of October 2021.During the data analysis, four main themes and thirteen sub-themes emerged, all of which were thoroughly examined. The findings suggest that maternal factors such as extreme pain in the breast, maternal sickness, belief that milk supply is insufficient, lack of EBF knowledge and cultural influences are the key contributors to the success or failure of EBF practice. When mothers have difficulties with breastfeeding, their difficulties can become barriers to EBF. Furthermore, a noteworthy finding is that some participants in this study were eager to breastfeed their babies and maintain EBF for six months; however, their infants had problems that prohibited them from doing so. These issues primarily included infants who refused to breastfeed and breast milk not being tolerated by some infants, as seen by baby vomiting after feeds. It was recommended that breastfeeding education and counselling should be available to mothers and their families from prenatal to postnatal so that they have enough time to make informed infant feeding decisions. Furthermore, an open dialogue with mothers and their families on a realistic understanding of what to expect when they first breastfeed, as well as the exploration of myths, inaccurate information, and concerns can be addressed during the counselling sessions. In conclusion, health professionals should also take into account the culture of mothers, respect cultural customs linked with breastfeeding, and respectfully educate them and their families about traditions that may affect breast-feeding. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2020
- Full Text:
Barriers to participation in sports among urban adolescents at an International School in Cape Town, South Africa
- Authors: Klaasen, Robyn Jade
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Urban teenagers -- Sports , Sports administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22155 , vital:51991
- Description: The benefits of participating in sport have been well documented and great emphasis has been placed on the role that it plays in the development of character and social skills, apart from physical and psychological benefits. Sport represents an optimal means of enabling children and adolescents to meet their daily requirements for physical activity to maintain health. Conversely, despite all of the widely acknowledged benefits, participation in sport among children and adolescents continues to decline throughout the world. Although a great deal of research has been conducted to identify barriers to participation in sport, most of it has concerned poor, rural, disadvantaged, or other marginalised groups. As a consequence, a large proportion of the research has attributed low rates of participation in sport to practical barriers, which usually take the forms of either logistical problems or a lack of resources. The aim of this study was to identify the barriers to participation in sport among adolescents in an affluent, urban setting, at an international school in Cape Town, South Africa. The Barriers to Sport Participation Questionnaire was used to identify the social, personal, and practical barriers that affected 107 adolescents who were enrolled in the school. The data was analysed by means of the SPSS (IBM, Version 27) software package and seven significant barriers were identified. Fear of academic failure, environmental constraints, and lack of interest were identified as the primary barriers, thereby emphasising the significant influence of personal barriers, rather than practical ones. It was also found that the influence of particular barriers was greater on females than their male counterparts and that the respondents who either did not participate in sport themselves or were from households in which other members did not do so were more adversely affected by some barriers than the others. Significant correlations were found between some grades and certain barriers, the most notable being those between respondents in Grades 7, 9, and 10 and the fear of academic failure barrier. In light of these findings, it could be concluded that the global decline in participation in sport among the youth is a complex problem and that particular barriers, which might not have been identified in previous research, could be particularly influential in affluent environments. As it is evident that as barriers can be specific to particular groups and settings, the optimal means of overcoming them is unlikely to be found through the adoption of a one-size-fitsall approach. Instead, further research and customised interventions are required. , Thesis (HMS) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Klaasen, Robyn Jade
- Date: 2021-10
- Subjects: Urban teenagers -- Sports , Sports administration
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22155 , vital:51991
- Description: The benefits of participating in sport have been well documented and great emphasis has been placed on the role that it plays in the development of character and social skills, apart from physical and psychological benefits. Sport represents an optimal means of enabling children and adolescents to meet their daily requirements for physical activity to maintain health. Conversely, despite all of the widely acknowledged benefits, participation in sport among children and adolescents continues to decline throughout the world. Although a great deal of research has been conducted to identify barriers to participation in sport, most of it has concerned poor, rural, disadvantaged, or other marginalised groups. As a consequence, a large proportion of the research has attributed low rates of participation in sport to practical barriers, which usually take the forms of either logistical problems or a lack of resources. The aim of this study was to identify the barriers to participation in sport among adolescents in an affluent, urban setting, at an international school in Cape Town, South Africa. The Barriers to Sport Participation Questionnaire was used to identify the social, personal, and practical barriers that affected 107 adolescents who were enrolled in the school. The data was analysed by means of the SPSS (IBM, Version 27) software package and seven significant barriers were identified. Fear of academic failure, environmental constraints, and lack of interest were identified as the primary barriers, thereby emphasising the significant influence of personal barriers, rather than practical ones. It was also found that the influence of particular barriers was greater on females than their male counterparts and that the respondents who either did not participate in sport themselves or were from households in which other members did not do so were more adversely affected by some barriers than the others. Significant correlations were found between some grades and certain barriers, the most notable being those between respondents in Grades 7, 9, and 10 and the fear of academic failure barrier. In light of these findings, it could be concluded that the global decline in participation in sport among the youth is a complex problem and that particular barriers, which might not have been identified in previous research, could be particularly influential in affluent environments. As it is evident that as barriers can be specific to particular groups and settings, the optimal means of overcoming them is unlikely to be found through the adoption of a one-size-fitsall approach. Instead, further research and customised interventions are required. , Thesis (HMS) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2021
- Full Text:
Barriers to utilisation of antenatal care services in Bloemfontein, sub-district of Mangaung Metro, Free State, South Africa
- Montshiwa, Kgalalelo Christine
- Authors: Montshiwa, Kgalalelo Christine
- Date: 2022-11
- Subjects: Prenatal care
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26995 , vital:66212
- Description: Background: Maternal and child mortality remain a global health problem, regardless of preventative measures put in place. Antenatal care is crucial to decrease maternal and child morbidity and mortality. However, in Bloemfontein, the sub-district of Mangaung Metro in the Free State, it has been identified that women utilise this kind of service sub-optimally. The study aimed to explore and describe barriers to the utilisation of antenatal care by pregnant women in the Bloemfontein sub-district of Mangaung Metro. Methodology: This study was qualitative and used an explorative, descriptive design. Qualitative data was collected by using focus group discussions and key informants’ interviews. Three focus group discussions with twenty-five pregnant and lactating mothers, aged between 18 and 49 years, were conducted. Participants took part in one focus group discussion at each healthcare facility. Four key informant interviews were conducted with four facility managers and one professional midwife who conducted ANC at the clinic at the time of the study in the three healthcare facilities. A thematic analysis process was used to analyse the collected qualitative data under each identified barrier. The STATA version 15 was used in the analysis of the demographic characteristics of the participants. Results: Most of the participants indicated that they are aware of the importance of attending ANC appointments however, they have voiced that the delayed waiting times and staff attitudes contribute to how they feel about visiting a clinic early. Some of the participants mentioned that they have cultural barriers as they still believe that a traditional pregnant woman should not reveal her pregnancy in the early days but must rather wait until her stomach has grown significantly for her to visit the clinic. Two participants indicated that they had unplanned pregnancies and wanted to do an abortion, but their religious beliefs prevented them to choose to terminate their pregnancies. Economically, not all participants complained about their financial situation though the majority were unemployed and single. Participants from the Bloemspruit facility complained of transport as they stay far from the clinic and they are sometimes forced to walk alone which makes it difficult to attend all their booked sessions with their midwives. The results of the study revealed that there are several factors contributing to late antenatal care attendance namely provider and personal factors contributing to late antenatal care attendance in the Bloemfontein sub-district of Mangaung Metro. Personal factors that were found to be contributing to late antenatal care booking were lack of transport, especially for Bloemspruit participants, unwanted pregnancy, lack of financial support, lack of partner support, cultural and religious beliefs, and lack of knowledge. Provider factors that were found to be contributing to late booking were lack of resources like tools of the trade, long waiting times, poor infrastructure, human resources, and midwives’ attitudes. Recommendations. To deploy qualified midwives to conduct antenatal care clinics, to extend the service over the weekends as participants mentioned that they struggle to get time off from work during the week. Health promotion and community awareness campaigns on the importance of antenatal care may increase the utilisation of antenatal care services. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Montshiwa, Kgalalelo Christine
- Date: 2022-11
- Subjects: Prenatal care
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26995 , vital:66212
- Description: Background: Maternal and child mortality remain a global health problem, regardless of preventative measures put in place. Antenatal care is crucial to decrease maternal and child morbidity and mortality. However, in Bloemfontein, the sub-district of Mangaung Metro in the Free State, it has been identified that women utilise this kind of service sub-optimally. The study aimed to explore and describe barriers to the utilisation of antenatal care by pregnant women in the Bloemfontein sub-district of Mangaung Metro. Methodology: This study was qualitative and used an explorative, descriptive design. Qualitative data was collected by using focus group discussions and key informants’ interviews. Three focus group discussions with twenty-five pregnant and lactating mothers, aged between 18 and 49 years, were conducted. Participants took part in one focus group discussion at each healthcare facility. Four key informant interviews were conducted with four facility managers and one professional midwife who conducted ANC at the clinic at the time of the study in the three healthcare facilities. A thematic analysis process was used to analyse the collected qualitative data under each identified barrier. The STATA version 15 was used in the analysis of the demographic characteristics of the participants. Results: Most of the participants indicated that they are aware of the importance of attending ANC appointments however, they have voiced that the delayed waiting times and staff attitudes contribute to how they feel about visiting a clinic early. Some of the participants mentioned that they have cultural barriers as they still believe that a traditional pregnant woman should not reveal her pregnancy in the early days but must rather wait until her stomach has grown significantly for her to visit the clinic. Two participants indicated that they had unplanned pregnancies and wanted to do an abortion, but their religious beliefs prevented them to choose to terminate their pregnancies. Economically, not all participants complained about their financial situation though the majority were unemployed and single. Participants from the Bloemspruit facility complained of transport as they stay far from the clinic and they are sometimes forced to walk alone which makes it difficult to attend all their booked sessions with their midwives. The results of the study revealed that there are several factors contributing to late antenatal care attendance namely provider and personal factors contributing to late antenatal care attendance in the Bloemfontein sub-district of Mangaung Metro. Personal factors that were found to be contributing to late antenatal care booking were lack of transport, especially for Bloemspruit participants, unwanted pregnancy, lack of financial support, lack of partner support, cultural and religious beliefs, and lack of knowledge. Provider factors that were found to be contributing to late booking were lack of resources like tools of the trade, long waiting times, poor infrastructure, human resources, and midwives’ attitudes. Recommendations. To deploy qualified midwives to conduct antenatal care clinics, to extend the service over the weekends as participants mentioned that they struggle to get time off from work during the week. Health promotion and community awareness campaigns on the importance of antenatal care may increase the utilisation of antenatal care services. , Thesis (MPA) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2023
- Full Text:
Bayesian spatio-temporal zero-inflated mixed models for overdispersion on chronic disease mapping
- Osuji, Georgeleen O https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8408-3928
- Authors: Osuji, Georgeleen O https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8408-3928
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Medical mapping , Bayesian statistical decision theory
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23644 , vital:58230
- Description: Background: Life expectancy in most developing countries has remarkably increased and decreased in mortality, but under 5 years old mortality has increased due to HIV and Tuberculosis incidence. Many factors have been established to influence the mortality rate among HIV patients and understanding the factors contribution to the risk of under 5-year-old mortality is important for designing appropriate health interventions. Excess zeros usually occur in such HIV mortality count data. Mixed models consisting of count part and zero part are often used to describe the observed excess zero in the data. Poisson models are popular modeling inference, but Negative-Binomial models are more flexible in analyzing count data and dealing with overdispersion. Method: This research proposed to develop two-part hurdle models in analyzing areal zero count data. A spatial Bayesian lognormal-logit hurdle model (BLLHM) with random effects characterizes and cross-spatial dependencies were introduced. The parameter inferences and predictions were evaluated using the Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm. The model proposed was applied to HIV-positive under 5-year-old mortality collected from the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Results: Bayesian lognormal-logit hurdle model is selected as the best model fit. It is observed that the total number of HIV patients not on ART-HIVnotTB (0.000612, p <0.000) was positively and statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients. Both CD4 counts were done on newly diagnosed HIV rate (CD4count) and HIV-positive new patients screened for TB rate (HIVTBrate) were negatively and statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients (-0.6294, p = 0.000 and -0.00056, p = 0.0052). However, the covariate HIV positive Tuberculosis Preventive therapy (TPT) uptake rate (HIVandTB) was not statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients (-0.00155, p = 0.5392). Conclusion: The model is flexible to deal with zero-inflated and over-dispersed count data. There is a need to consider the risk of cause-specific under-5-year-old mortality in terms of spatial effects. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Osuji, Georgeleen O https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8408-3928
- Date: 2021-12
- Subjects: Medical mapping , Bayesian statistical decision theory
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/23644 , vital:58230
- Description: Background: Life expectancy in most developing countries has remarkably increased and decreased in mortality, but under 5 years old mortality has increased due to HIV and Tuberculosis incidence. Many factors have been established to influence the mortality rate among HIV patients and understanding the factors contribution to the risk of under 5-year-old mortality is important for designing appropriate health interventions. Excess zeros usually occur in such HIV mortality count data. Mixed models consisting of count part and zero part are often used to describe the observed excess zero in the data. Poisson models are popular modeling inference, but Negative-Binomial models are more flexible in analyzing count data and dealing with overdispersion. Method: This research proposed to develop two-part hurdle models in analyzing areal zero count data. A spatial Bayesian lognormal-logit hurdle model (BLLHM) with random effects characterizes and cross-spatial dependencies were introduced. The parameter inferences and predictions were evaluated using the Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm. The model proposed was applied to HIV-positive under 5-year-old mortality collected from the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Results: Bayesian lognormal-logit hurdle model is selected as the best model fit. It is observed that the total number of HIV patients not on ART-HIVnotTB (0.000612, p <0.000) was positively and statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients. Both CD4 counts were done on newly diagnosed HIV rate (CD4count) and HIV-positive new patients screened for TB rate (HIVTBrate) were negatively and statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients (-0.6294, p = 0.000 and -0.00056, p = 0.0052). However, the covariate HIV positive Tuberculosis Preventive therapy (TPT) uptake rate (HIVandTB) was not statistically significantly associated with the HIV-positive mortality of under 5 years patients (-0.00155, p = 0.5392). Conclusion: The model is flexible to deal with zero-inflated and over-dispersed count data. There is a need to consider the risk of cause-specific under-5-year-old mortality in terms of spatial effects. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Big data use at an automotive manufacturer: a framework to address privacy concerns in Hadoop Technology.
- Authors: Padayachee, Prenisha
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Data protection. , Privacy, Right of. , Computer networks--Security measures.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22255 , vital:52009
- Description: An automotive manufacturer can generate big data through accessible data points from internal and external Internet of Things (IoT) data sources connected to the production line. Big data analytics needs to be applied to these large and complex datasets to realise the associated opportunities, such as an improved manufacturing process, optimised supply chain management, competitive advantage and business growth. In order to store, manage and process the data, automotive manufacturers are using Apache Hadoop technology. Apache Hadoop is a cost-effective, scalable, and fault-tolerant technology. However, there has been a concern raised regarding the privacy of big data in Apache Hadoop. A key challenge in Hadoop technology is its ineffective security model, making the data susceptible to unauthorised users. Consequently, a breach in data privacy results in automotive manufacturers becoming victims of theft of trade secrets and intellectual property via corporate spies. This theft has a negative impact and results in the loss of company reputation, business competitiveness and business growth in the automotive market. This study investigated a solution to ensure big data privacy when using Hadoop technology. The Selective Organisational Information Privacy and Security Violations Model (SOIPSVM) and the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) provided the theoretical base for this study. The researcher undertook a literature analysis and qualitative study to understand and address the identified research problem. The primary data was collected from ten Information Technology (IT) specialists at a local automotive manufacturer. These specialists participated in an interview session, which also included the completion of a questionnaire. All questions were pre-determined and open-ended, and the participants' responses were recorded. Primary data was analysed using the inductive approach by identifying relevant themes and sub-themes. In contrast, the literature analysis included academic journals, conference proceedings, websites, and books, which were critically discussed in this study. This study's findings indicated various measures to be implemented by the automotive manufacturer to address the research problem. Critical success factors were derived from the identified measures, which addressed significant data privacy issues in using Hadoop technology. The identified critical success factors included: control of internal and external data sources; monitor the value of big data towards improving the automotive manufacturing process and user behaviour; implementation of user authentication; encryption to secure data; disaster recovery and backup plan; execution of authorisation and Access Control List (ACLS); conduct audits and regular reviews of user access to data; apply data masking to sensitive data and tokenization to secure data; build own infrastructure to store and analyse data; install regular security updates and update passwords regularly. Each factor had a purpose that examined big data management, governance and compliance in detail. The identified factors contributed towards ensuring data privacy in the use of Hadoop technology. These factors were categorised into contextual and rule and regulatory conditions adopted from the SOIPSVM. Identified conditions were then aligned to the five-level CMM. Each condition was expanded upon at various maturity levels to form a framework that addressed the main research problem. The framework's application was described as an independent assessment of each critical success factor and provided a guide through various maturity levels. The framework's purpose was to address and overcome big data privacy concerns in using Hadoop technology at a local automotive manufacturer. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Padayachee, Prenisha
- Date: 2021-11
- Subjects: Data protection. , Privacy, Right of. , Computer networks--Security measures.
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22255 , vital:52009
- Description: An automotive manufacturer can generate big data through accessible data points from internal and external Internet of Things (IoT) data sources connected to the production line. Big data analytics needs to be applied to these large and complex datasets to realise the associated opportunities, such as an improved manufacturing process, optimised supply chain management, competitive advantage and business growth. In order to store, manage and process the data, automotive manufacturers are using Apache Hadoop technology. Apache Hadoop is a cost-effective, scalable, and fault-tolerant technology. However, there has been a concern raised regarding the privacy of big data in Apache Hadoop. A key challenge in Hadoop technology is its ineffective security model, making the data susceptible to unauthorised users. Consequently, a breach in data privacy results in automotive manufacturers becoming victims of theft of trade secrets and intellectual property via corporate spies. This theft has a negative impact and results in the loss of company reputation, business competitiveness and business growth in the automotive market. This study investigated a solution to ensure big data privacy when using Hadoop technology. The Selective Organisational Information Privacy and Security Violations Model (SOIPSVM) and the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) provided the theoretical base for this study. The researcher undertook a literature analysis and qualitative study to understand and address the identified research problem. The primary data was collected from ten Information Technology (IT) specialists at a local automotive manufacturer. These specialists participated in an interview session, which also included the completion of a questionnaire. All questions were pre-determined and open-ended, and the participants' responses were recorded. Primary data was analysed using the inductive approach by identifying relevant themes and sub-themes. In contrast, the literature analysis included academic journals, conference proceedings, websites, and books, which were critically discussed in this study. This study's findings indicated various measures to be implemented by the automotive manufacturer to address the research problem. Critical success factors were derived from the identified measures, which addressed significant data privacy issues in using Hadoop technology. The identified critical success factors included: control of internal and external data sources; monitor the value of big data towards improving the automotive manufacturing process and user behaviour; implementation of user authentication; encryption to secure data; disaster recovery and backup plan; execution of authorisation and Access Control List (ACLS); conduct audits and regular reviews of user access to data; apply data masking to sensitive data and tokenization to secure data; build own infrastructure to store and analyse data; install regular security updates and update passwords regularly. Each factor had a purpose that examined big data management, governance and compliance in detail. The identified factors contributed towards ensuring data privacy in the use of Hadoop technology. These factors were categorised into contextual and rule and regulatory conditions adopted from the SOIPSVM. Identified conditions were then aligned to the five-level CMM. Each condition was expanded upon at various maturity levels to form a framework that addressed the main research problem. The framework's application was described as an independent assessment of each critical success factor and provided a guide through various maturity levels. The framework's purpose was to address and overcome big data privacy concerns in using Hadoop technology at a local automotive manufacturer. , Thesis (MCom) (Information Systems) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Billing system, communication strategies, and organisation change in Zimbabwe: the case of telone customers’ postpaid to prepaid migration
- Authors: Dube, Sizalobuhle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Communication , Organizational change , Organizational change -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27336 , vital:66942
- Description: This study investigated the effectiveness of the communication strategies used to implement the migration of telephone services from post-paid to prepaid billing at TelOne Zimbabwe. This study adopted the Freeman‟s stakeholder theory and the Lewin‟s change model to analyse the factors that influenced the effectiveness of the communication strategies used by TelOne before, during and after the change implementation as a way to communicate the initiative with its stakeholders. A qualitative approach was utilised and the key research methods used included document analysis, participant observation, as well as 21 face-to-face and 79 telephonic semi-structured interviews conducted with respondents from among TelOne managers, employees and the customers. The documents and respondents were purposively sampled based on the researcher‟s knowledge of their relevance in the study. The findings revealed several factors that mired effective change communication strategies such as company image, stakeholder recognition and communication centralisation. To curb these communication challenges, the study proposes Thrive organisational communication change model TOCC that encourages organisations to communicate the initiative to its relevant internal and external stakeholders considering their views and addressing factors that might hinder effective communication as a strategy to enhance successful change management. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2023
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dube, Sizalobuhle
- Date: 2023-04
- Subjects: Communication , Organizational change , Organizational change -- Management
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27336 , vital:66942
- Description: This study investigated the effectiveness of the communication strategies used to implement the migration of telephone services from post-paid to prepaid billing at TelOne Zimbabwe. This study adopted the Freeman‟s stakeholder theory and the Lewin‟s change model to analyse the factors that influenced the effectiveness of the communication strategies used by TelOne before, during and after the change implementation as a way to communicate the initiative with its stakeholders. A qualitative approach was utilised and the key research methods used included document analysis, participant observation, as well as 21 face-to-face and 79 telephonic semi-structured interviews conducted with respondents from among TelOne managers, employees and the customers. The documents and respondents were purposively sampled based on the researcher‟s knowledge of their relevance in the study. The findings revealed several factors that mired effective change communication strategies such as company image, stakeholder recognition and communication centralisation. To curb these communication challenges, the study proposes Thrive organisational communication change model TOCC that encourages organisations to communicate the initiative to its relevant internal and external stakeholders considering their views and addressing factors that might hinder effective communication as a strategy to enhance successful change management. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2023
- Full Text:
Bio-utilization of keratinous waste biomass for the production of keratinolytic proteases by Chryseobactreium aquifrigidense isolated from poultry waste dumpsite
- Authors: Bokveld, Amahle
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Keratin
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20550 , vital:46120
- Description: Keratin is an insoluble and a fibrous protein that is mostly found in feathers, animal wool, and hair, making them mechanically stable. Avian feathers are the most ubiquitously generated keratinous waste biomass from the poultry processing plants. Keratinous waste biomass valorization could produce amino acids and bioactive peptides. Hence, the bio-recycling of keratin-rich wastes bears an advantage over the chemical and thermal means. In recent times, the microbial keratinases continues to gain traction due to the litany of their potential significance in green technology. Consequently, this study assessed chicken feather degrading and keratinase production potentials of bacteria isolated from a local poultry dumpsite. Soil samples were collected from the poultry dumpsite. Bacteria were isolated using basal salt medium and screened for keratinolytic activity. The identification of potent chicken feather degrading bacterial isolates was through 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Keratinase production efficiency of isolates on chicken feather constituted medium was optimized. Hydrolysate's amino acid compositions were quantified, and the keratinases produced was characterized. Out of 22 bacteria isolated from the soil samples, 12 showed a varying degree of proteolytic activity on skimmed milk agar. Four (4) isolates, coded as FPS-01, FPS-07, FPS-09, WDS-06, out of the 12 proteolytic strains further displayed remarkable degradation of the intact chicken feather; percentage degradation ranged from 69 percent for FPS-01 to 88 percent for FPS-09. The extracellular keratinase activity ranged from 610.91 ± 56.57 U/mL for WDS-06 and 834.55 ± 66.86 U/mL for FPS-07. Additionally, the sulfhydryl group concentration quantified from the fermentation broth was 2.22 ± 0.37 (mM), 0.22 ± 0.08 (mM), 2.27 ± 0.09 (mM), and 2.76 ± 0.79 (mM) for FPS-01, FPS-07, FPS-09 and WDS-06, respectively. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analyses, the isolates FPS-07 and FPS-09 were identified as Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense FANN1 and Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense FANN2. Following the optimization process, the improved fermentation conditions were pH 6, inoculum side (4 percent, v/v), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (0.5-1.5 percent, w/v) for FANN1. FANN2 optimal fermentation conditions were pH 6, inoculum (5 percent, v/v), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (1.5 percent, w/v). Both bacterial isolates showed the highest extracellular keratinase production after 72 h of the fermentation time. Analysis of the hydrolysates generated from the bacteria fermentation showed a high concentration of arginine, serine, glutamic acid, glycine, proline, valine, and leucine at a respective concentration of 1.13, 1.02, 0.83, 0.94, 0.85, 0.84, and 0.86 (g/100g sample) against FANN1. Similarly, FANN2 generated hydrolysate showed high concentrations of glutamic acid, arginine, serine, aspartic acid, and glycine at this respective abundance 2.52, 1.92, 2.12, 2.25 and 1.9 (g/100g sample). Keratinases from FANN1 and FANN2 showed optimal catalytic efficiency at pH 8 and temperature between 40-50 oC. The enzyme was considerably thermostable at 40 oC and 50 oC after 120 min of preheating. Both FANN1 and FANN2 showed variable residual activity in the presence of the different metal ions. Keratinase from FANN1 recorded the following residual activity of Fe3+ (120 ± 5.06 percent), Ca2+ (100 ± 10.33 percent), Na+ (122 ± 2.95 percent), Al3+ (106 ± 10.33 percent). Likewise, FANN2 keratinase showed remarkable stability against Na+ (108 ± 13.71 percent), Ba2+ (102 ± 0.86 percent), Al3+ (105 ± 2.57 percent), and Ca2+ (96 ± 2.99 percent). Keratinase from FANN1 was catalytically activated after 60 min of pre-treatment with the following detergents, Sunlight (129 percent), Ariel (116 percent), MAQ (151 percent), and Surf (143 percent) compared to the control. FANN2 keratinase showed less stability with laundry detergents after 60 min of preincubation. FANN1 keratinase showed remarkable stability in the presence of chemical agents tested, with residual activity of 90 ± 0.18 percent, 105 ± 7.55 percent, 108 ± 4.31 percent, 123 ± 1.44 percent, 132 ± 1.26 percent, 96 ± 7.19 percent, and 101 ± 3.06 percent for DTT, hydrogen peroxide, DMSO, acetonitrile, triton X-100, tween-80, and SDS, respectively. The enzyme activity was also considerably inhibited by PMSF and EDTA, which suggested a mixed type of protease. Furthermore, keratinase from FANN2 was inhibited by EDTA, and such inhibition pattern grouped it as a metallo-type of protease. The enzyme was also stable in the presence of other chemical agents tested. Therefore, the findings suggest the isolates and their enzymes' relevance to sustainable recycling of recalcitrant keratinous wastes into high-value products with immense application potentials. The remarkable stability shown by keratinases from FANN1 and FANN2, post detergent and chemical agents pre-treatment, indicates promise for the biotechnology and industrial sector. , Thesis(MSc) (Microbiology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bokveld, Amahle
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Keratin
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20550 , vital:46120
- Description: Keratin is an insoluble and a fibrous protein that is mostly found in feathers, animal wool, and hair, making them mechanically stable. Avian feathers are the most ubiquitously generated keratinous waste biomass from the poultry processing plants. Keratinous waste biomass valorization could produce amino acids and bioactive peptides. Hence, the bio-recycling of keratin-rich wastes bears an advantage over the chemical and thermal means. In recent times, the microbial keratinases continues to gain traction due to the litany of their potential significance in green technology. Consequently, this study assessed chicken feather degrading and keratinase production potentials of bacteria isolated from a local poultry dumpsite. Soil samples were collected from the poultry dumpsite. Bacteria were isolated using basal salt medium and screened for keratinolytic activity. The identification of potent chicken feather degrading bacterial isolates was through 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Keratinase production efficiency of isolates on chicken feather constituted medium was optimized. Hydrolysate's amino acid compositions were quantified, and the keratinases produced was characterized. Out of 22 bacteria isolated from the soil samples, 12 showed a varying degree of proteolytic activity on skimmed milk agar. Four (4) isolates, coded as FPS-01, FPS-07, FPS-09, WDS-06, out of the 12 proteolytic strains further displayed remarkable degradation of the intact chicken feather; percentage degradation ranged from 69 percent for FPS-01 to 88 percent for FPS-09. The extracellular keratinase activity ranged from 610.91 ± 56.57 U/mL for WDS-06 and 834.55 ± 66.86 U/mL for FPS-07. Additionally, the sulfhydryl group concentration quantified from the fermentation broth was 2.22 ± 0.37 (mM), 0.22 ± 0.08 (mM), 2.27 ± 0.09 (mM), and 2.76 ± 0.79 (mM) for FPS-01, FPS-07, FPS-09 and WDS-06, respectively. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analyses, the isolates FPS-07 and FPS-09 were identified as Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense FANN1 and Chryseobacterium aquifrigidense FANN2. Following the optimization process, the improved fermentation conditions were pH 6, inoculum side (4 percent, v/v), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (0.5-1.5 percent, w/v) for FANN1. FANN2 optimal fermentation conditions were pH 6, inoculum (5 percent, v/v), temperature (30 oC), and chicken feather (1.5 percent, w/v). Both bacterial isolates showed the highest extracellular keratinase production after 72 h of the fermentation time. Analysis of the hydrolysates generated from the bacteria fermentation showed a high concentration of arginine, serine, glutamic acid, glycine, proline, valine, and leucine at a respective concentration of 1.13, 1.02, 0.83, 0.94, 0.85, 0.84, and 0.86 (g/100g sample) against FANN1. Similarly, FANN2 generated hydrolysate showed high concentrations of glutamic acid, arginine, serine, aspartic acid, and glycine at this respective abundance 2.52, 1.92, 2.12, 2.25 and 1.9 (g/100g sample). Keratinases from FANN1 and FANN2 showed optimal catalytic efficiency at pH 8 and temperature between 40-50 oC. The enzyme was considerably thermostable at 40 oC and 50 oC after 120 min of preheating. Both FANN1 and FANN2 showed variable residual activity in the presence of the different metal ions. Keratinase from FANN1 recorded the following residual activity of Fe3+ (120 ± 5.06 percent), Ca2+ (100 ± 10.33 percent), Na+ (122 ± 2.95 percent), Al3+ (106 ± 10.33 percent). Likewise, FANN2 keratinase showed remarkable stability against Na+ (108 ± 13.71 percent), Ba2+ (102 ± 0.86 percent), Al3+ (105 ± 2.57 percent), and Ca2+ (96 ± 2.99 percent). Keratinase from FANN1 was catalytically activated after 60 min of pre-treatment with the following detergents, Sunlight (129 percent), Ariel (116 percent), MAQ (151 percent), and Surf (143 percent) compared to the control. FANN2 keratinase showed less stability with laundry detergents after 60 min of preincubation. FANN1 keratinase showed remarkable stability in the presence of chemical agents tested, with residual activity of 90 ± 0.18 percent, 105 ± 7.55 percent, 108 ± 4.31 percent, 123 ± 1.44 percent, 132 ± 1.26 percent, 96 ± 7.19 percent, and 101 ± 3.06 percent for DTT, hydrogen peroxide, DMSO, acetonitrile, triton X-100, tween-80, and SDS, respectively. The enzyme activity was also considerably inhibited by PMSF and EDTA, which suggested a mixed type of protease. Furthermore, keratinase from FANN2 was inhibited by EDTA, and such inhibition pattern grouped it as a metallo-type of protease. The enzyme was also stable in the presence of other chemical agents tested. Therefore, the findings suggest the isolates and their enzymes' relevance to sustainable recycling of recalcitrant keratinous wastes into high-value products with immense application potentials. The remarkable stability shown by keratinases from FANN1 and FANN2, post detergent and chemical agents pre-treatment, indicates promise for the biotechnology and industrial sector. , Thesis(MSc) (Microbiology) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021
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Bioconversion of chicken feather into amino acids and keratinase production by mesophilic Chryseobacterium proteolyticum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from municipal waste dumpsites
- Giwu, Nonkonzo https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9416-7896
- Authors: Giwu, Nonkonzo https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9416-7896
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Poultry -- Processing , Proteolytic enzymes
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22732 , vital:52720
- Description: Chicken feathers are by-products of poultry processing which are generated in large amount because of the global growing demand for poultry meats. They have high contents of crude proteins in the form of keratin which could be valorized into digestible products. Keratinases are classified as a specific collection of proteolytic enzymes that have the ability for the degradation of recalcitrant keratinous substrates. Isolation and characterization of these enzymes from various microbial producers are gaining prominence in recent years due to their industrial and biotechnological application potentials. For this research, the collection of soil samples was done as well as the isolation of bacteria and the screening for keratinolytic activity. 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were used to identify the isolates with efficient chicken feathers degrading capacity. Optimum conditions for the fermentation prcocess was enhanced for the production of keratinase. The fermentation broth was also analysed for various amino acids of protein, and the biochemical properties of the enzymes were likewise determined. Twenty two (22) bacteria were isolated from the soil samples, and 18 out of the 22 isolates showed proteolytic activity on solid media with diameters of halo zone that ranged from 5 ± 0.71 mm for isolate coded as PSS-03 to 25 ± 1.41 mm for isolate coded as PSS-06. Intact chicken feathers were degraded by proteolytic bacterial isolates in variable degree that ranged from 24percent for PSS-10 and 81percent for DSS-02. Extracellular keratinase production recorded for the isolates ranged from 63.63 ± 4.14 U/mL for PSS-10 to 693.63 ± 62.99 U/mL for DSS-02. Based on 16S rDNA sequence and phylogenetic analysis, the 2 isolates with remarkable keratinolytic activity coded as DSS-02 and PSS-14 were identified as Chryseobacterium proteolyticum FGNn and Pseudomonas aeruginosa GNFx. C. proteolyticum showed the maximum keratinase production of 756.36 U/mL after 72 h of incubation at optimized fermentation conditions which involved initial medium pH (4), incubation temperature (30 oC), inoculum size (2percent; v/v), and chicken feathers (1.5percent; w/v). Similarly, P. aeruginosa optimally produced keratinase (1055.45 U/mL) after 96 h of incubation at optimized fermentation conditions that involved initial medium pH (7-8), incubation temperature (30 oC), inoculum size (5percent; v/v), and chicken feathers (2.5percent; w/v). Furthermore, feather hydrolysate from C. proteolyticum FGNn had relatively higher abundance (>1.5g/100g sample) of arginine (1.85), serine (1.63), glycine (1.9) and lysine (1.62); while P. aeruginosa GNFx feather hydrolysate showed high abundance of arginine, serine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, alanine, valine, and leucine with respective concentration of 2.06, 1.67, 2.39, 3.05, 1.87, 1.73, 1.56 and 1.65 (g/100g sample). The results showed that keratinases from the two bacterial isolates were optimally active at pH 8, and temperature of 50 oC for FGNn keratinase and 50-60 oC for GNFx keratinase. The enzymes displayed remarkable pH stability. Keratinase from C. proteolyticum was catalytically inhibited by EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline but not affected by PMSF; while P. aeruginosa keratinase was not significantly affected by those class of protease inhibitors. Adiitionally, FGNn keratinase demonstrated high residual activity of 90percent, 103percent, 101percent, 110percent, 130, and 105percent in the presence of DTT, hydrogen peroxides, acetonitrile, triton X-100, tween-80 and SDS, respectively. Similarly, catalytic efficiency of GNFx keratinase was promoted in the presence of hydrogen peroxides (119percent), triton X-100 (140percent), tween-80 (150percent) and SDS (147percent) compared to the control. Furthermore, the keratinases from the both bacterial isolates exhibited catalytic efficiency enhancement and remarkable structural stability in the presence of laundry detergents tested. The findings from the study suggest the application potentials of the isolates for the bioconversion of recalcitrant keratinous wastes into digestible and quality protein hydrolysates. The properties of these microbial keratinases indicate that they may be exploited for various biotechnological and industrial processes especially in the formulation of detergents. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
- Authors: Giwu, Nonkonzo https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9416-7896
- Date: 2021-02
- Subjects: Poultry -- Processing , Proteolytic enzymes
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/22732 , vital:52720
- Description: Chicken feathers are by-products of poultry processing which are generated in large amount because of the global growing demand for poultry meats. They have high contents of crude proteins in the form of keratin which could be valorized into digestible products. Keratinases are classified as a specific collection of proteolytic enzymes that have the ability for the degradation of recalcitrant keratinous substrates. Isolation and characterization of these enzymes from various microbial producers are gaining prominence in recent years due to their industrial and biotechnological application potentials. For this research, the collection of soil samples was done as well as the isolation of bacteria and the screening for keratinolytic activity. 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were used to identify the isolates with efficient chicken feathers degrading capacity. Optimum conditions for the fermentation prcocess was enhanced for the production of keratinase. The fermentation broth was also analysed for various amino acids of protein, and the biochemical properties of the enzymes were likewise determined. Twenty two (22) bacteria were isolated from the soil samples, and 18 out of the 22 isolates showed proteolytic activity on solid media with diameters of halo zone that ranged from 5 ± 0.71 mm for isolate coded as PSS-03 to 25 ± 1.41 mm for isolate coded as PSS-06. Intact chicken feathers were degraded by proteolytic bacterial isolates in variable degree that ranged from 24percent for PSS-10 and 81percent for DSS-02. Extracellular keratinase production recorded for the isolates ranged from 63.63 ± 4.14 U/mL for PSS-10 to 693.63 ± 62.99 U/mL for DSS-02. Based on 16S rDNA sequence and phylogenetic analysis, the 2 isolates with remarkable keratinolytic activity coded as DSS-02 and PSS-14 were identified as Chryseobacterium proteolyticum FGNn and Pseudomonas aeruginosa GNFx. C. proteolyticum showed the maximum keratinase production of 756.36 U/mL after 72 h of incubation at optimized fermentation conditions which involved initial medium pH (4), incubation temperature (30 oC), inoculum size (2percent; v/v), and chicken feathers (1.5percent; w/v). Similarly, P. aeruginosa optimally produced keratinase (1055.45 U/mL) after 96 h of incubation at optimized fermentation conditions that involved initial medium pH (7-8), incubation temperature (30 oC), inoculum size (5percent; v/v), and chicken feathers (2.5percent; w/v). Furthermore, feather hydrolysate from C. proteolyticum FGNn had relatively higher abundance (>1.5g/100g sample) of arginine (1.85), serine (1.63), glycine (1.9) and lysine (1.62); while P. aeruginosa GNFx feather hydrolysate showed high abundance of arginine, serine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, alanine, valine, and leucine with respective concentration of 2.06, 1.67, 2.39, 3.05, 1.87, 1.73, 1.56 and 1.65 (g/100g sample). The results showed that keratinases from the two bacterial isolates were optimally active at pH 8, and temperature of 50 oC for FGNn keratinase and 50-60 oC for GNFx keratinase. The enzymes displayed remarkable pH stability. Keratinase from C. proteolyticum was catalytically inhibited by EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline but not affected by PMSF; while P. aeruginosa keratinase was not significantly affected by those class of protease inhibitors. Adiitionally, FGNn keratinase demonstrated high residual activity of 90percent, 103percent, 101percent, 110percent, 130, and 105percent in the presence of DTT, hydrogen peroxides, acetonitrile, triton X-100, tween-80 and SDS, respectively. Similarly, catalytic efficiency of GNFx keratinase was promoted in the presence of hydrogen peroxides (119percent), triton X-100 (140percent), tween-80 (150percent) and SDS (147percent) compared to the control. Furthermore, the keratinases from the both bacterial isolates exhibited catalytic efficiency enhancement and remarkable structural stability in the presence of laundry detergents tested. The findings from the study suggest the application potentials of the isolates for the bioconversion of recalcitrant keratinous wastes into digestible and quality protein hydrolysates. The properties of these microbial keratinases indicate that they may be exploited for various biotechnological and industrial processes especially in the formulation of detergents. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2021
- Full Text:
Biological activities and mechanisms of action of two ethnobotanically selected South African medicinal plants on some bacteria associated with gastrointestinal infections
- Olajuyigbe, Olufunmiso Olusola https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7889-0416
- Authors: Olajuyigbe, Olufunmiso Olusola https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7889-0416
- Date: 2012-08
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Herbs -- Therapeutic use , Gastrointestinal system
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25439 , vital:64249
- Description: In this study, 36 plant species representing 24 families were found to be commonly used for the treatment of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders in Eastern Cape, South Africa. The family Fabaceae had the highest number of species. Out of these, 47.06percent were used in the treatment of dysentery alone while 46.15percent were used in the treatment of diarrhoea. Acacia mearnsii De Wild and Ziziphus mucronata subsp. mucronata Willd were selected for this research because they are extensively used in folkloric medicine in South Africa and there was lack of scientific reports that documented their biological activities. The phytochemical screening, antioxidant activities, in vitro antimicrobial activities, cytotoxicity, the synergistic potentials and mechanisms of actions of these plants were investigated. The phytochemical screening and the antioxidant activities of the two species showed that the quantity of the phenolic compounds, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins detected differ significantly in the various extracts. Of the aqueous, acetone, ethanolic and methanolic extracts of A. mearnsii, the ethanolic extract had the highest flavonoids while the acetone extract had the highest phenolic contents. The proanthocyanidins were highest in the methanol extract while aqueous extracts had the least phytochemicals. Aqueous extract showed the least ferric reducing power but methanol extract indicated the highest reducing power. The reducing power of the extracts was lower than those obtained from the reference standard such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), rutin and ascorbic acid. 2,2’-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) diammonium salt showed that ethanol extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity at the highest concentration tested. Also, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay indicated that ethanol extract had the highest radical scavenging activity at the lowest concentration and the activities of all the extracts decreased with increase in their concentrations. In Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata, the phenolics were significantly higher than the flavonoids and proanthocyanidin contents in all the extracts investigated. The ethanol extract had the highest antioxidant activity, followed by the acetone extract while the aqueous extract was the least active. Reacting with ABTS, the 50percent inhibitory concentrations (IC50) were (0.0429 ± 0.04 mg/ml) for aqueous, (0.0317 ± 0.04 mg/ml) for acetone and (0.0306 ± 0.04 mg/ml) for ethanol extracts while they inhibited DPPH radical with 50percent inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 0.0646 ± 0.02 mg/ml (aqueous), 0.0482 ± 0.02 mg/ml (acetone) and 0.0422 ± 0.03 mg/ml (ethanol). The investigation showed that a positive linear correlation existed between the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the extracts and that these plants have strong antioxidant property and free radical scavenging capability. The in vitro antibacterial activities of Acacia mearnsii and Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata showed that their minimum inhibitory concentrations ranged between 0.039 mg/ml and 1.25 mg/ml. With the exception of acetone extract of A. mearnsii having MICs greater than 1.0 mg/ml for Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 and Bacillus subtilis KZN, all other isolates had MICs less than 0.7 mg/ml. In all the bacteria treated with Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata extracts, Enterobacter cloacae ATCC 13047 had MIC greater than 1 mg/ml in methanol extract, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 had MICs greater than 1 mg/ml in acetone extract while all other isolates were highly susceptible to the different extracts of Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata and had MICs less than 0.7 mg/ml. While aqueous extract was as active as the alcoholic extracts in A. mearnsii, that of Z. mucronata had no effect. The ethanol extracts exhibited the highest degree of antibacterial activity in both plants. This study, also, showed that the antifungal activity of A. mearnsii ranging 0.3125 – 5.0 mg/ml was higher than those of the different extracts of Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata ranging 1.25 – 10.0 mg/ml. It is evident from the results of the brine shrimp lethality assay that the crude extracts of A. mearnsii with the LC50 equaled 112.36 µg/ml and having the highest levels of toxicity (100percent) death at 500 μg/ml was non toxic (LC50 > 100 μg/ml) while the LC50 for Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata equaled 90.27 µg/ml indicated a low level of toxicity. The effects of combining the crude extracts of these plants with eight antibiotics were investigated by means of checkerboard and agar diffusion methods. On using the methanol extract of A. mearnsii, the agar diffusion assay showed that extract-kanamycin combination had zones of inhibition ≥ 20 ± 1.0 mm in all the bacteria tested (100percent), followed by extract chloramphenicol (90percent) > extract-ciprofloxacin = extract-tetracycline (70percent) > extract amoxicillin (60percent) > extract-nalidixic acid (50percent) > extract-erythromycin (40percent) > extract metronidazole (20percent). The checkerboard showed synergistic interaction (61.25percent), additivity/indifference (23.75percent) and antagonistic (15percent) effects. I, therefore, concluded that the antibacterial potentials of the antibiotics were improved and combining natural products with antibiotic could be a potential source of resistance-modifying agents useful against multi-drug resistant bacteria. The influences of these extracts on the ultrastructures, elemental components, protein and lipid leakages of five different bacteria were determined as the possible mechanisms of action of the extracts investigated. The scanning electron microscopy indicated varied ultrastructural changes in the morphology of bacterial cells treated with the extracts. The X-ray microanalysis showed significant differences between the elemental contents of extract-treated and untreated bacteria while lipids and proteins were leaked to a great extent from the extract-treated bacterial strains in comparison with the untreated ones. The possible mechanisms of action of the extracts may include inhibition of a significant step in peptidoglycan assembly, inhibition of metabolic processes, disruption of cell wall and cell membranes resulting in the efflux of lipid and protein in all the bacteria tested. The possible mechanism of action involved in the lipid and protein leakages in the bacterial cells could be attributed to lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation owing to the antioxidant activities of the extracts that were active beyond the protective levels. I concluded that the morphological changes and the observed leakages showed rapid killing, significant membrane depolarization resulting in leakages and efflux of disintegrated cellular materials. In general, this study has justified the ethnotherapeutic importance of A. mearnsii and Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata in the treatment of microbial infections by indicating the possible mechanisms of action of the crude extracts on the tested bacteria. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2012
- Full Text:
- Authors: Olajuyigbe, Olufunmiso Olusola https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7889-0416
- Date: 2012-08
- Subjects: Medicinal plants , Herbs -- Therapeutic use , Gastrointestinal system
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25439 , vital:64249
- Description: In this study, 36 plant species representing 24 families were found to be commonly used for the treatment of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders in Eastern Cape, South Africa. The family Fabaceae had the highest number of species. Out of these, 47.06percent were used in the treatment of dysentery alone while 46.15percent were used in the treatment of diarrhoea. Acacia mearnsii De Wild and Ziziphus mucronata subsp. mucronata Willd were selected for this research because they are extensively used in folkloric medicine in South Africa and there was lack of scientific reports that documented their biological activities. The phytochemical screening, antioxidant activities, in vitro antimicrobial activities, cytotoxicity, the synergistic potentials and mechanisms of actions of these plants were investigated. The phytochemical screening and the antioxidant activities of the two species showed that the quantity of the phenolic compounds, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins detected differ significantly in the various extracts. Of the aqueous, acetone, ethanolic and methanolic extracts of A. mearnsii, the ethanolic extract had the highest flavonoids while the acetone extract had the highest phenolic contents. The proanthocyanidins were highest in the methanol extract while aqueous extracts had the least phytochemicals. Aqueous extract showed the least ferric reducing power but methanol extract indicated the highest reducing power. The reducing power of the extracts was lower than those obtained from the reference standard such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), rutin and ascorbic acid. 2,2’-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) diammonium salt showed that ethanol extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity at the highest concentration tested. Also, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay indicated that ethanol extract had the highest radical scavenging activity at the lowest concentration and the activities of all the extracts decreased with increase in their concentrations. In Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata, the phenolics were significantly higher than the flavonoids and proanthocyanidin contents in all the extracts investigated. The ethanol extract had the highest antioxidant activity, followed by the acetone extract while the aqueous extract was the least active. Reacting with ABTS, the 50percent inhibitory concentrations (IC50) were (0.0429 ± 0.04 mg/ml) for aqueous, (0.0317 ± 0.04 mg/ml) for acetone and (0.0306 ± 0.04 mg/ml) for ethanol extracts while they inhibited DPPH radical with 50percent inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 0.0646 ± 0.02 mg/ml (aqueous), 0.0482 ± 0.02 mg/ml (acetone) and 0.0422 ± 0.03 mg/ml (ethanol). The investigation showed that a positive linear correlation existed between the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the extracts and that these plants have strong antioxidant property and free radical scavenging capability. The in vitro antibacterial activities of Acacia mearnsii and Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata showed that their minimum inhibitory concentrations ranged between 0.039 mg/ml and 1.25 mg/ml. With the exception of acetone extract of A. mearnsii having MICs greater than 1.0 mg/ml for Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 and Bacillus subtilis KZN, all other isolates had MICs less than 0.7 mg/ml. In all the bacteria treated with Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata extracts, Enterobacter cloacae ATCC 13047 had MIC greater than 1 mg/ml in methanol extract, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 had MICs greater than 1 mg/ml in acetone extract while all other isolates were highly susceptible to the different extracts of Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata and had MICs less than 0.7 mg/ml. While aqueous extract was as active as the alcoholic extracts in A. mearnsii, that of Z. mucronata had no effect. The ethanol extracts exhibited the highest degree of antibacterial activity in both plants. This study, also, showed that the antifungal activity of A. mearnsii ranging 0.3125 – 5.0 mg/ml was higher than those of the different extracts of Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata ranging 1.25 – 10.0 mg/ml. It is evident from the results of the brine shrimp lethality assay that the crude extracts of A. mearnsii with the LC50 equaled 112.36 µg/ml and having the highest levels of toxicity (100percent) death at 500 μg/ml was non toxic (LC50 > 100 μg/ml) while the LC50 for Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata equaled 90.27 µg/ml indicated a low level of toxicity. The effects of combining the crude extracts of these plants with eight antibiotics were investigated by means of checkerboard and agar diffusion methods. On using the methanol extract of A. mearnsii, the agar diffusion assay showed that extract-kanamycin combination had zones of inhibition ≥ 20 ± 1.0 mm in all the bacteria tested (100percent), followed by extract chloramphenicol (90percent) > extract-ciprofloxacin = extract-tetracycline (70percent) > extract amoxicillin (60percent) > extract-nalidixic acid (50percent) > extract-erythromycin (40percent) > extract metronidazole (20percent). The checkerboard showed synergistic interaction (61.25percent), additivity/indifference (23.75percent) and antagonistic (15percent) effects. I, therefore, concluded that the antibacterial potentials of the antibiotics were improved and combining natural products with antibiotic could be a potential source of resistance-modifying agents useful against multi-drug resistant bacteria. The influences of these extracts on the ultrastructures, elemental components, protein and lipid leakages of five different bacteria were determined as the possible mechanisms of action of the extracts investigated. The scanning electron microscopy indicated varied ultrastructural changes in the morphology of bacterial cells treated with the extracts. The X-ray microanalysis showed significant differences between the elemental contents of extract-treated and untreated bacteria while lipids and proteins were leaked to a great extent from the extract-treated bacterial strains in comparison with the untreated ones. The possible mechanisms of action of the extracts may include inhibition of a significant step in peptidoglycan assembly, inhibition of metabolic processes, disruption of cell wall and cell membranes resulting in the efflux of lipid and protein in all the bacteria tested. The possible mechanism of action involved in the lipid and protein leakages in the bacterial cells could be attributed to lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation owing to the antioxidant activities of the extracts that were active beyond the protective levels. I concluded that the morphological changes and the observed leakages showed rapid killing, significant membrane depolarization resulting in leakages and efflux of disintegrated cellular materials. In general, this study has justified the ethnotherapeutic importance of A. mearnsii and Z. mucronata subsp. mucronata in the treatment of microbial infections by indicating the possible mechanisms of action of the crude extracts on the tested bacteria. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2012
- Full Text:
Capital flows and real exchange rate movement in South Africa
- Authors: Lindani, Sandiswa
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates , Exchange rate pass-through , Capital movements
- Language: English
- Type: Master's/ theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20417 , vital:45664
- Description: The neoclassical theory suggests that free flow of external capital should be equilibrating and thereby facilitating smoothening of an economy's consumption or production patterns. Based on this background, this study empirically examines the extent to which the different forms of capital flows amongst other variables influence the real exchange rate in South Africa for the period 1980 to 2019, using annual data. Estimation techniques employed include the Johansen Co-integration Approach and the Vector error correction model (VECM). The variables were found to be co-integrated, with six co-integrating vectors existing. The long-run results revealed that FPI has an appreciating effect on the exchange rate in South Africa. Based on the results, policy recommendations are suggested. , Thesis (MCom) (Economics) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lindani, Sandiswa
- Date: 2021-09
- Subjects: Foreign exchange rates , Exchange rate pass-through , Capital movements
- Language: English
- Type: Master's/ theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/20417 , vital:45664
- Description: The neoclassical theory suggests that free flow of external capital should be equilibrating and thereby facilitating smoothening of an economy's consumption or production patterns. Based on this background, this study empirically examines the extent to which the different forms of capital flows amongst other variables influence the real exchange rate in South Africa for the period 1980 to 2019, using annual data. Estimation techniques employed include the Johansen Co-integration Approach and the Vector error correction model (VECM). The variables were found to be co-integrated, with six co-integrating vectors existing. The long-run results revealed that FPI has an appreciating effect on the exchange rate in South Africa. Based on the results, policy recommendations are suggested. , Thesis (MCom) (Economics) -- University of Fort Hare, 2021.
- Full Text:
Caregivers’ experiences with HIV infected orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) at a Non- Governmental Organisation (NGO) in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Majokweni, Oscarina
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons--Care--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Orphans--Services for--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25140 , vital:63981
- Description: HIV and AIDS epidemic has caused much devastation and has left many children destitute and in need of care and supervision. The present study investigated the psychological experiences of caregivers caring for HIV infected orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). The context of working and living in orphanages is accepted as challenging for all concerned, yet the number of studies examining the challenging experiences of caregivers The study was informed by a qualitative research method and semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. The theoretical framework that informed this study is the Stress, Burnout and Coping Models. The study made use of a Interpretative Phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of ten caregivers who participated in the study. From the themes that were abstracted it was evident that caring for HIV infected OVC is emotionally, physically and mentally strenuous for the caregivers. It was better recommended that caregivers be given recognition for their challenging work and be included in the planning and development of programmes that affect their caregiving role. Furthermore, emotional, psycho-social, and income-generating skills support programmes including training and educational programmes should be implemented. This will alleviate the distress inherent to the caregiving role and to equip them with the necessary skills for handling the demands of their work. , Thesis (MSoc (Psy)) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
- Authors: Majokweni, Oscarina
- Date: 2013-11
- Subjects: HIV-positive persons--Care--South Africa--Eastern Cape , Orphans--Services for--South Africa--Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/25140 , vital:63981
- Description: HIV and AIDS epidemic has caused much devastation and has left many children destitute and in need of care and supervision. The present study investigated the psychological experiences of caregivers caring for HIV infected orphans and vulnerable children (OVC). The context of working and living in orphanages is accepted as challenging for all concerned, yet the number of studies examining the challenging experiences of caregivers The study was informed by a qualitative research method and semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. The theoretical framework that informed this study is the Stress, Burnout and Coping Models. The study made use of a Interpretative Phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of ten caregivers who participated in the study. From the themes that were abstracted it was evident that caring for HIV infected OVC is emotionally, physically and mentally strenuous for the caregivers. It was better recommended that caregivers be given recognition for their challenging work and be included in the planning and development of programmes that affect their caregiving role. Furthermore, emotional, psycho-social, and income-generating skills support programmes including training and educational programmes should be implemented. This will alleviate the distress inherent to the caregiving role and to equip them with the necessary skills for handling the demands of their work. , Thesis (MSoc (Psy)) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2013
- Full Text:
Causes of high staff-turnover amongst professional nurses at selected health facilities in Kwazulu-Natal Province
- Mabaso, Sindisiwe Carol Catherine
- Authors: Mabaso, Sindisiwe Carol Catherine
- Date: 2022-02
- Subjects: Primary health care -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21838 , vital:51822
- Description: BACKGROUND: Staff turnover, defined as the total separations from employment, is expensive, can result in lost capacity, and can limit local health departments’ ability to respond to public health needs. Despite the importance of workforce capacity in public health, little is known about workforce turnover in local health departments. This study sought to determine the causes of high staff-turnover amongst professional nurses at selected health facilities in KwaZulu-Natal province and to identify corrective measures. Professional nurses are a critical staff category in any health organisation and make up the backbone of health care system. It is thus vital to ensure that this category is retained for the benefit of health services and its ultimate beneficiary, the patient. Furthermore, Personnel and Salaries System (PERSAL) statistics have shown that the hospitals selected for this study viz., Nkandla Local Municipality (LM) has more that two times (28%) the turnover rates (TORs) for PNs when compared to the district target of 11%, thus the decision to conduct this study at this particular municipality. METHODOLOGY: This research adopted a mixed methods retrospective study where both quantitative and qualitative approach was used to analyse data. The primary data source was the Exit Interview forms completed when a staff member resigns. It consists of three sections viz., section one contained demographics of each respondent with variables such as name PERSAL number, gender, rank, appointment and termination dates; section two contained closed ended statements on potential causes of termination where the respondent answered yes or no to statements such as offered senior position; and section three which was mostly qualitative information where respondents stated own additional views and comments regarding other causes of termination and recommended solutions. Both sections one and two were analysed using quantitative analysis while section three was analysed using qualitative analysis. Qualitative data from comments sections of the exit interview forms was thematically presented and analysed. These results were grouped into five themes namely; Career Progression, Management, Unacceptable or Poor Conditions of Service, Remuneration and Personal Issues. These previously completed exit interview forms were manually analysed in order to determine the causes of high staff-turnover amongst professional nurses at selected health facilities in KwaZulu-Natal province, during the period 2015-2016. Exit interview forms, previously completed by professional nurses for the period 2015 to 2016, were collected from both Nkandla LM district hospitals namely Ekombe and Nkandla. A self-designed spread sheet was used to collate the quantitative data from the exit interview forms which contained personal and demographic data (names, gender, PERSAL numbers, appointment and termination dates, rank, etc.), type of exit, and causes of exit, comments and proposed changes, following which it was manually analysed. RESULTS: A total of 54 participants completed the exit interview forms and selected the causes of service termination which were relevant to them. Ekombe Hospital participants were twelve (12) and Nkandla Hospital participants were forty two (42). Not all professional nurses who exited the service during the study period completed the exit interview form. The exit interview form completion rate was 78% (54/69). Twenty-four percent (13/54) of participants did not complete the exit interview form in full. The quantitative analysis revealed that the gender distribution of participants was mostly female, making 80% (43/54). The majority of participants, 30% (16/54), had 21-25 years’ service prior to exiting. On qualitative data analysis, the majority of participants selected unacceptable or poor conditions of service as the cause of service termination 65% (35/54) participants. This trend was also similar when each hospital participants’ selections were examined. In Ekombe Hospital 83% (10/12) participants’ selected unacceptable or poor conditions of service as the cause of service termination and in Nkandla Hospital this was 60% (25/42) participants. The majority of participants, 78% (42/54), stated that they still intended to re-join the department, and most were seeking employment in the public service. Furthermore, 70% (38/54), of the participants stated they would have stayed had their expectations been met. Further examination of themes and sub-themes derived from the qualitative data of the exit interview forms, the majority of comments, (20 comments), were related to Unacceptable or Poor Conditions of Service as the cause of termination. Sub themes analysis further identified resource shortages as the most common comments related to this determination. CONCLUSION: The leading causes of high staff-turnover amongst professional nurses at selected health facilities in KwaZulu-Natal province was determined to be unacceptable or poor conditions of service. On thematic analysis of qualitative data that emerged from the exit interview forms, the key areas that contributed to this determination included mainly resource constraints issues such as shortage of staff, shortage of equipment, shortage of funds, as well as poor infrastructure. Recommendations for staff retention and improvements in service conditions have been proposed. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mabaso, Sindisiwe Carol Catherine
- Date: 2022-02
- Subjects: Primary health care -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Labor turnover -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21838 , vital:51822
- Description: BACKGROUND: Staff turnover, defined as the total separations from employment, is expensive, can result in lost capacity, and can limit local health departments’ ability to respond to public health needs. Despite the importance of workforce capacity in public health, little is known about workforce turnover in local health departments. This study sought to determine the causes of high staff-turnover amongst professional nurses at selected health facilities in KwaZulu-Natal province and to identify corrective measures. Professional nurses are a critical staff category in any health organisation and make up the backbone of health care system. It is thus vital to ensure that this category is retained for the benefit of health services and its ultimate beneficiary, the patient. Furthermore, Personnel and Salaries System (PERSAL) statistics have shown that the hospitals selected for this study viz., Nkandla Local Municipality (LM) has more that two times (28%) the turnover rates (TORs) for PNs when compared to the district target of 11%, thus the decision to conduct this study at this particular municipality. METHODOLOGY: This research adopted a mixed methods retrospective study where both quantitative and qualitative approach was used to analyse data. The primary data source was the Exit Interview forms completed when a staff member resigns. It consists of three sections viz., section one contained demographics of each respondent with variables such as name PERSAL number, gender, rank, appointment and termination dates; section two contained closed ended statements on potential causes of termination where the respondent answered yes or no to statements such as offered senior position; and section three which was mostly qualitative information where respondents stated own additional views and comments regarding other causes of termination and recommended solutions. Both sections one and two were analysed using quantitative analysis while section three was analysed using qualitative analysis. Qualitative data from comments sections of the exit interview forms was thematically presented and analysed. These results were grouped into five themes namely; Career Progression, Management, Unacceptable or Poor Conditions of Service, Remuneration and Personal Issues. These previously completed exit interview forms were manually analysed in order to determine the causes of high staff-turnover amongst professional nurses at selected health facilities in KwaZulu-Natal province, during the period 2015-2016. Exit interview forms, previously completed by professional nurses for the period 2015 to 2016, were collected from both Nkandla LM district hospitals namely Ekombe and Nkandla. A self-designed spread sheet was used to collate the quantitative data from the exit interview forms which contained personal and demographic data (names, gender, PERSAL numbers, appointment and termination dates, rank, etc.), type of exit, and causes of exit, comments and proposed changes, following which it was manually analysed. RESULTS: A total of 54 participants completed the exit interview forms and selected the causes of service termination which were relevant to them. Ekombe Hospital participants were twelve (12) and Nkandla Hospital participants were forty two (42). Not all professional nurses who exited the service during the study period completed the exit interview form. The exit interview form completion rate was 78% (54/69). Twenty-four percent (13/54) of participants did not complete the exit interview form in full. The quantitative analysis revealed that the gender distribution of participants was mostly female, making 80% (43/54). The majority of participants, 30% (16/54), had 21-25 years’ service prior to exiting. On qualitative data analysis, the majority of participants selected unacceptable or poor conditions of service as the cause of service termination 65% (35/54) participants. This trend was also similar when each hospital participants’ selections were examined. In Ekombe Hospital 83% (10/12) participants’ selected unacceptable or poor conditions of service as the cause of service termination and in Nkandla Hospital this was 60% (25/42) participants. The majority of participants, 78% (42/54), stated that they still intended to re-join the department, and most were seeking employment in the public service. Furthermore, 70% (38/54), of the participants stated they would have stayed had their expectations been met. Further examination of themes and sub-themes derived from the qualitative data of the exit interview forms, the majority of comments, (20 comments), were related to Unacceptable or Poor Conditions of Service as the cause of termination. Sub themes analysis further identified resource shortages as the most common comments related to this determination. CONCLUSION: The leading causes of high staff-turnover amongst professional nurses at selected health facilities in KwaZulu-Natal province was determined to be unacceptable or poor conditions of service. On thematic analysis of qualitative data that emerged from the exit interview forms, the key areas that contributed to this determination included mainly resource constraints issues such as shortage of staff, shortage of equipment, shortage of funds, as well as poor infrastructure. Recommendations for staff retention and improvements in service conditions have been proposed. , Thesis (MPH) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
- Full Text:
Challenges experienced by Economics teachers without specialization in the subject in Amathole West Education District
- Williams, Thandile https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4143-4248
- Authors: Williams, Thandile https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4143-4248
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Economics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) , Economics -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26007 , vital:64780
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges experienced by senior secondary school teachers teaching Economics without specialization in the subject. The study was done in three senior secondary schools in the Amathole West Education District in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The intention of the study was to ascertain the challenges these teachers faced in teaching the subject and come up with strategies that can be used to support them. The study adopted a qualitative research approach that used face-to-face interviews and document reviews to collect the required data. Purposive sampling was used to select those who participated in the study. The participants were four educators who teach Economics without specialization, one School Management Team (SMT) member, one principal, and one subject advisor. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect required data from all the participants. Systems Theory and Pedagogical Content Knowledge are the Theoretical Frameworks that this study aligned itself with and relevant literature was also reviewed in the study. The study revealed reasons for teachers to teach Economics without specialization, challenges faced by these teachers, how these teachers cope with the challenges they face, and the support provided to these teachers. Based on the findings revealed by the study, some recommendations have been made. The major ones are: teachers teaching subjects without specialization in the subject should be reallocated to teach the subjects they specialized in, and/or the teachers should enrol for a study course(s) specially designed for them to capacitate themselves, and the Department of Education must fund these courses for these teachers. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, 2022
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- Authors: Williams, Thandile https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4143-4248
- Date: 2022-05
- Subjects: Economics -- Study and teaching (Secondary) , Economics -- Study and teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26007 , vital:64780
- Description: The purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges experienced by senior secondary school teachers teaching Economics without specialization in the subject. The study was done in three senior secondary schools in the Amathole West Education District in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The intention of the study was to ascertain the challenges these teachers faced in teaching the subject and come up with strategies that can be used to support them. The study adopted a qualitative research approach that used face-to-face interviews and document reviews to collect the required data. Purposive sampling was used to select those who participated in the study. The participants were four educators who teach Economics without specialization, one School Management Team (SMT) member, one principal, and one subject advisor. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect required data from all the participants. Systems Theory and Pedagogical Content Knowledge are the Theoretical Frameworks that this study aligned itself with and relevant literature was also reviewed in the study. The study revealed reasons for teachers to teach Economics without specialization, challenges faced by these teachers, how these teachers cope with the challenges they face, and the support provided to these teachers. Based on the findings revealed by the study, some recommendations have been made. The major ones are: teachers teaching subjects without specialization in the subject should be reallocated to teach the subjects they specialized in, and/or the teachers should enrol for a study course(s) specially designed for them to capacitate themselves, and the Department of Education must fund these courses for these teachers. , Thesis (MEd) -- Faculty of Education, 2022
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Challenges experienced by xhosa single mothers during the traditional circumcision of their adolescent sons
- Authors: Mdunyelwa, Akhona
- Date: 2020-07
- Subjects: Circumcision
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21004 , vital:46891
- Description: Culturally, amongst Amaxhosa, traditional male circumcision is known to be a men subject and that women are supposed to be passive and submissive in the entire process (Kang’ethe & Nomngcoyiya, 2016). Women play a huge role in nurturing children, however, when it comes to traditional male circumcision of their sons, their role is limited to preparing food and traditional beer for the initiation ceremony. These women include single mothers, therefore, the interest of this study is on how Xhosa single mothers encounter challenges in the traditional circumcision of their sons, thus the main purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges experienced by Xhosa single mothers during traditional circumcision of their adolescent sons. The following three objectives were set out to guide the investigation A. To investigate challenges experienced by Xhosa single mothers during the traditional circumcision of their adolescent sons. B. To determine the extent to which Xhosa single mothers participate in the plans and decision making during the circumcision of their adolescent sons. C. To explore the support that Xhosa single mothers require during the process of their sons’ circumcision. A purposive sampling procedure was employed, and ten Xhosa single mothers were interviewed on a one-to-one basis. In addition, a focus group consisting of four men was conducted. The following are the main findings of the study: •Traditional male circumcision is the most respected custom amongst the AmaXhosa nation. Women are in fear of speaking publicly about the challenges they experience in traditional male circumcision processes. • There are various challenges experienced by Xhosa single mothers which include the need for involvement of men to usher their sons into the ritual. • The absence and lack of support from the biological fathers of the sons results in aconsiderable burden for the Xhosa single mothers that includes financial challenges. • The religious orientation or Christian faith of some of the Xhosa single mothers clashes with the request of their sons to participate in traditional male circumcision. • The individuals and societal drop in cultural standards and being stormed by the dominant Western culture as opposed to Ubuntu was identified as the greatest challenge in the Xhosa communities. • There is a clash of cultural norms and values with the current equality lifestyle as well as the enjoyment of constitutional rights by the Xhosa single mothers during traditional circumcision of their sons. There is a lack of support for Xhosa single mothers in relation to traditional circumcision of their adolescent sons from the families, community, and the government. Much of the support is directed to strategies to preserve the custom, improve the procedure and to curb the casualties. • The study proved that, traditional male circumcision is a stressful process for the Xhosa single mothers which inflict strain and anxiety. Some of the concepts from Bowen`s family systems theory were proven and discussed as part of the findings. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, 2020
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- Authors: Mdunyelwa, Akhona
- Date: 2020-07
- Subjects: Circumcision
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/21004 , vital:46891
- Description: Culturally, amongst Amaxhosa, traditional male circumcision is known to be a men subject and that women are supposed to be passive and submissive in the entire process (Kang’ethe & Nomngcoyiya, 2016). Women play a huge role in nurturing children, however, when it comes to traditional male circumcision of their sons, their role is limited to preparing food and traditional beer for the initiation ceremony. These women include single mothers, therefore, the interest of this study is on how Xhosa single mothers encounter challenges in the traditional circumcision of their sons, thus the main purpose of the study was to investigate the challenges experienced by Xhosa single mothers during traditional circumcision of their adolescent sons. The following three objectives were set out to guide the investigation A. To investigate challenges experienced by Xhosa single mothers during the traditional circumcision of their adolescent sons. B. To determine the extent to which Xhosa single mothers participate in the plans and decision making during the circumcision of their adolescent sons. C. To explore the support that Xhosa single mothers require during the process of their sons’ circumcision. A purposive sampling procedure was employed, and ten Xhosa single mothers were interviewed on a one-to-one basis. In addition, a focus group consisting of four men was conducted. The following are the main findings of the study: •Traditional male circumcision is the most respected custom amongst the AmaXhosa nation. Women are in fear of speaking publicly about the challenges they experience in traditional male circumcision processes. • There are various challenges experienced by Xhosa single mothers which include the need for involvement of men to usher their sons into the ritual. • The absence and lack of support from the biological fathers of the sons results in aconsiderable burden for the Xhosa single mothers that includes financial challenges. • The religious orientation or Christian faith of some of the Xhosa single mothers clashes with the request of their sons to participate in traditional male circumcision. • The individuals and societal drop in cultural standards and being stormed by the dominant Western culture as opposed to Ubuntu was identified as the greatest challenge in the Xhosa communities. • There is a clash of cultural norms and values with the current equality lifestyle as well as the enjoyment of constitutional rights by the Xhosa single mothers during traditional circumcision of their sons. There is a lack of support for Xhosa single mothers in relation to traditional circumcision of their adolescent sons from the families, community, and the government. Much of the support is directed to strategies to preserve the custom, improve the procedure and to curb the casualties. • The study proved that, traditional male circumcision is a stressful process for the Xhosa single mothers which inflict strain and anxiety. Some of the concepts from Bowen`s family systems theory were proven and discussed as part of the findings. , Thesis (MSoc) -- Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, 2020
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Challenges faced by healthcare professionals in reporting near miss incidents in a hospital, at the Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
- Authors: Ntlanganiso, Lindiwe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Industrial accidents , Accident investigation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27094 , vital:66276
- Description: Background Recording and investigation of NMIs can provide valuable information on monitoring and enhancing patient safety in the healthcare facilities. This in turn, can reduce the likelihood of medico-legal claims. Regardless of attempts to establish efficient incident reporting systems across the entire healthcare industry, underreporting of errors persists worldwide. Therefore, not only do near miss incidents serve as early warning signs of impending potential failure in the healthcare system, but they also provide a chance for patient safety improvement. With that in mind, this study was undertaken to investigate challenges faced by health care professionals in reporting near miss incidents at a hospital in the Amathole District, in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Aim The aim of the study was to develop recommendations for healthcare management and healthcare professionals on how to better manage NMIs, and by identifying the challenges faced by health care professionals and the impact they have on the quality of care at one state-funded district hospital. Setting The study was conducted with healthcare professionals at a district hospital in the Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Methods This study used a mixed method study design. Purposive and convenience sampling were used for participants’ selection for the study. Quantitative data was collected using the WHO Near-Miss Approach while individual and focus group interviews with healthcare professionals were carried out for collecting qualitative data. The maternity and neonatal intensive care units were identified as the two high-risk areas from which most medical negligence claims are lodged. The number of complications that occurred in each month of the year 2019 was determined by using components of the WHO near miss approach. The researcher adopted this approach to serve as a baseline assessment. Data was analysed using both Nvivo Version 10 and SPSS Version 20. Findings The challenges that healthcare professionals face in reporting near miss incidents at the study site included lack of knowledge about the reporting tool and system, inability to identify a near miss incident and healthcare professional attitudes and practices. The document review revealed that the NMIs are existent but not reported on the prescribed reporting system, a total of 210 actual incidents had occurred in the maternity and neonatal units of the hospital, which accounts for 62% of the 357 deliveries in the year 2019. Conclusion Based on the study result and findings, the healthcare system should shift towards a proactive rather than a reactive approach to medical and clinical errors. Continuously reducing the incidence of all patient safety incidents requires improved prevention strategies and effective strategies for recovery from possible medico-legal claims. The study further suggests that additional focus should be placed on NMI reporting and investigation so that operative improvement plans can be developed, implemented, monitored and evaluated. In essence, these improvement plans should be designed to progress patient care, reduce avoidable PSIs and reduce medico-legal claims. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
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- Authors: Ntlanganiso, Lindiwe
- Date: 2022-12
- Subjects: Industrial accidents , Accident investigation
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/27094 , vital:66276
- Description: Background Recording and investigation of NMIs can provide valuable information on monitoring and enhancing patient safety in the healthcare facilities. This in turn, can reduce the likelihood of medico-legal claims. Regardless of attempts to establish efficient incident reporting systems across the entire healthcare industry, underreporting of errors persists worldwide. Therefore, not only do near miss incidents serve as early warning signs of impending potential failure in the healthcare system, but they also provide a chance for patient safety improvement. With that in mind, this study was undertaken to investigate challenges faced by health care professionals in reporting near miss incidents at a hospital in the Amathole District, in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Aim The aim of the study was to develop recommendations for healthcare management and healthcare professionals on how to better manage NMIs, and by identifying the challenges faced by health care professionals and the impact they have on the quality of care at one state-funded district hospital. Setting The study was conducted with healthcare professionals at a district hospital in the Amathole District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Methods This study used a mixed method study design. Purposive and convenience sampling were used for participants’ selection for the study. Quantitative data was collected using the WHO Near-Miss Approach while individual and focus group interviews with healthcare professionals were carried out for collecting qualitative data. The maternity and neonatal intensive care units were identified as the two high-risk areas from which most medical negligence claims are lodged. The number of complications that occurred in each month of the year 2019 was determined by using components of the WHO near miss approach. The researcher adopted this approach to serve as a baseline assessment. Data was analysed using both Nvivo Version 10 and SPSS Version 20. Findings The challenges that healthcare professionals face in reporting near miss incidents at the study site included lack of knowledge about the reporting tool and system, inability to identify a near miss incident and healthcare professional attitudes and practices. The document review revealed that the NMIs are existent but not reported on the prescribed reporting system, a total of 210 actual incidents had occurred in the maternity and neonatal units of the hospital, which accounts for 62% of the 357 deliveries in the year 2019. Conclusion Based on the study result and findings, the healthcare system should shift towards a proactive rather than a reactive approach to medical and clinical errors. Continuously reducing the incidence of all patient safety incidents requires improved prevention strategies and effective strategies for recovery from possible medico-legal claims. The study further suggests that additional focus should be placed on NMI reporting and investigation so that operative improvement plans can be developed, implemented, monitored and evaluated. In essence, these improvement plans should be designed to progress patient care, reduce avoidable PSIs and reduce medico-legal claims. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, 2022
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Challenges in the implementation of affirmative action policy at a municipality
- Authors: Baqo, Zukelwa
- Date: 2012-01
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Affirmative action programs -- Government policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's Thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26368 , vital:65295
- Description: A survey of 50 employees was conducted to identify challenges in the implementation of affirmative action, as well as intervention that have been implemented to escalate its implementation at Nkonkobe Municipality in the Eastern Cape. A closed questionnaire containing 26 items was used to collect date form respondents. The results of the study were analysed and interpreted using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, that is, Chi square test to measure association between demographic responses to each of the variables. Results indicated that lack of top management commitment to transformation, poor perception about affirmative action by managers about affirmative action, failure to link affirmative action to business strategy and poor representation of relevant stakeholders in the Employment Equity committee, are the fundamental factors that contribute to the sluggish implementation of affirmative action at Nkonkobe Municipality. Findings also revealed that successful implementation of affirmative action also depend on capacitating managers with the skills necessary to implement plans effectively, commitment of top management to making transformation a strategies priority, as well as investment in training and development is necessary to assist beneficiaries to catch up with those employees that have has a better education. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2012
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- Authors: Baqo, Zukelwa
- Date: 2012-01
- Subjects: Affirmative action programs -- Law and legislation -- South Africa , Affirmative action programs -- Government policy -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Master's Thesis , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/26368 , vital:65295
- Description: A survey of 50 employees was conducted to identify challenges in the implementation of affirmative action, as well as intervention that have been implemented to escalate its implementation at Nkonkobe Municipality in the Eastern Cape. A closed questionnaire containing 26 items was used to collect date form respondents. The results of the study were analysed and interpreted using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, that is, Chi square test to measure association between demographic responses to each of the variables. Results indicated that lack of top management commitment to transformation, poor perception about affirmative action by managers about affirmative action, failure to link affirmative action to business strategy and poor representation of relevant stakeholders in the Employment Equity committee, are the fundamental factors that contribute to the sluggish implementation of affirmative action at Nkonkobe Municipality. Findings also revealed that successful implementation of affirmative action also depend on capacitating managers with the skills necessary to implement plans effectively, commitment of top management to making transformation a strategies priority, as well as investment in training and development is necessary to assist beneficiaries to catch up with those employees that have has a better education. , Thesis (MCom) -- Faculty of Management and Commerce, 2012
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Characterisation of communal rangeland degradation and evaluation of vegetation restoration techniques in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Lesoli, 'Mota Samuel
- Date: 2011-12
- Subjects: Communal rangelands , Grazing
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24316 , vital:62624
- Description: This study assessed the social factors influencing poor communal rangeland management, which are assumed to result in rangeland degradation. This was followed by, examination of biophysical characteristics of rangeland degradation in communal areas. To relate social factors featuring in communal rangeland management with rangeland degradation, biophysical factors influencing livestock grazing distribution patterns were studied. To establish the solution to communal rangeland degradation, rangeland restoration techniques were evaluated. The study was conducted at Amakhuze Tribal Authority (ATA) (S32o 38´, E26o56, 763 - 1500 m.a.s.l) composed of six villages and Phandulwazi Agricultural High School (S32o 39´ and E26o 55´, 747 m.a.s.l). Focus group discussions were conducted in six villages and questionnaire surveys in four randomly selected villages to assess social factors influencing communal rangeland degradation. Communal rangeland degradation biophysical characteristics were assessed. Biophysical factors affecting livestock grazing distribution pattern were examined through direct field observations for 12 months. Restoration techniques were evaluated on 26 plots. The social factors influencing communal rangeland management include lack of skills on rangeland management for farmers, lack of individual/community obligation on grazing management, lack of effective policies and/or poor enforcement accompanied by lack of effective institutions governing rangeland utilisation and management. Communal rangelands were more (χ 2 = 2612.07, df = 26, p < 0.01) degraded compared with controlled grazing areas. Within the communal rangelands, land degradation was higher at the low-lying areas, compared to foothills, midslopes, and mountaintop (crest). Rangeland degradation in communal areas was characterised by poor forage productivity and poor vegetation cover , higher soil unconfined compressive strength (UCS) (4.5 kg/cm2) with low hydraulic conductivity (5.21 x 10-3) and physical soil loss characteristics such presence of terracettes, pedestals, rills and gullies. Grazing distribution was higher at valley bottom (r2 = 0.404, p < 0.001), low altitude (r2 = -0.007, p < 0.001), closer to water points (r2 = -0.001, p < 0.001), and on grassland vegetation (r2 = 0.620, p < 0.001). Introduction of seedlings with microcatchment combined with brushpack promoted (p < 0.05) higher number of tillers (13), leaves (42) and reduced seedling mortality (10.4percent). T. triandra produced higher (p < 0.05) number of tillers (12) and leaves (39) but low number of inflorescence (0.7) with higher mortality rates (25.3percent) compared to P. dilatatum. Where plant propagules were introduced as seeds, use of microcatchment promoted higher seed germination (F = 38.84, p < 0.05) and maintained higher plant density (F = 37.43, p < 0.05). E. curvula seeds attained higher germination rate and maintained higher plant density compared to D. eriantha and P. Maximum. Use of microcatchment, brushpack, and water spreading system promoted soil water retention. It is important that any interventions aimed at improving communal rangeland management, controlling rangeland degradation in the communal areas, or restoring degraded rangelands to consider the social factors driving rangeland management and biophysical factors influencing grazing distribution pattern. Rangeland restoration techniques for communal areas should be centred on their ability to collect and retain water to promote restoration performance of introduced plant propagules. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2011
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- Authors: Lesoli, 'Mota Samuel
- Date: 2011-12
- Subjects: Communal rangelands , Grazing
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24316 , vital:62624
- Description: This study assessed the social factors influencing poor communal rangeland management, which are assumed to result in rangeland degradation. This was followed by, examination of biophysical characteristics of rangeland degradation in communal areas. To relate social factors featuring in communal rangeland management with rangeland degradation, biophysical factors influencing livestock grazing distribution patterns were studied. To establish the solution to communal rangeland degradation, rangeland restoration techniques were evaluated. The study was conducted at Amakhuze Tribal Authority (ATA) (S32o 38´, E26o56, 763 - 1500 m.a.s.l) composed of six villages and Phandulwazi Agricultural High School (S32o 39´ and E26o 55´, 747 m.a.s.l). Focus group discussions were conducted in six villages and questionnaire surveys in four randomly selected villages to assess social factors influencing communal rangeland degradation. Communal rangeland degradation biophysical characteristics were assessed. Biophysical factors affecting livestock grazing distribution pattern were examined through direct field observations for 12 months. Restoration techniques were evaluated on 26 plots. The social factors influencing communal rangeland management include lack of skills on rangeland management for farmers, lack of individual/community obligation on grazing management, lack of effective policies and/or poor enforcement accompanied by lack of effective institutions governing rangeland utilisation and management. Communal rangelands were more (χ 2 = 2612.07, df = 26, p < 0.01) degraded compared with controlled grazing areas. Within the communal rangelands, land degradation was higher at the low-lying areas, compared to foothills, midslopes, and mountaintop (crest). Rangeland degradation in communal areas was characterised by poor forage productivity and poor vegetation cover , higher soil unconfined compressive strength (UCS) (4.5 kg/cm2) with low hydraulic conductivity (5.21 x 10-3) and physical soil loss characteristics such presence of terracettes, pedestals, rills and gullies. Grazing distribution was higher at valley bottom (r2 = 0.404, p < 0.001), low altitude (r2 = -0.007, p < 0.001), closer to water points (r2 = -0.001, p < 0.001), and on grassland vegetation (r2 = 0.620, p < 0.001). Introduction of seedlings with microcatchment combined with brushpack promoted (p < 0.05) higher number of tillers (13), leaves (42) and reduced seedling mortality (10.4percent). T. triandra produced higher (p < 0.05) number of tillers (12) and leaves (39) but low number of inflorescence (0.7) with higher mortality rates (25.3percent) compared to P. dilatatum. Where plant propagules were introduced as seeds, use of microcatchment promoted higher seed germination (F = 38.84, p < 0.05) and maintained higher plant density (F = 37.43, p < 0.05). E. curvula seeds attained higher germination rate and maintained higher plant density compared to D. eriantha and P. Maximum. Use of microcatchment, brushpack, and water spreading system promoted soil water retention. It is important that any interventions aimed at improving communal rangeland management, controlling rangeland degradation in the communal areas, or restoring degraded rangelands to consider the social factors driving rangeland management and biophysical factors influencing grazing distribution pattern. Rangeland restoration techniques for communal areas should be centred on their ability to collect and retain water to promote restoration performance of introduced plant propagules. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2011
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